A critical review of the low-cost housing policy in South Africa: a multi case study
- Authors: Mkuzo, Tim Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Public housing -- South Africa Housing policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18972 , vital:28761
- Description: Housing is a complex subject and has stimulated thought processes of scholars globally for a long time. Throughout the world, governments are flooded by a myriad of housing challenges associated with the provision of housing. Policy has been used as a communicator of governments’ visions and strategies on housing provision. The apartheid legacies have left the country’s housing terrain totally disfigured. To correct this travesty of justice, the government has resorted to policy and legislative framework. In 1994, the Housing White Paper on housing was introduced as a guiding vehicle of the state’s aspirations in its quest to address spatial inequalities and provide housing to millions who had never had a place they could call home. However, the inability of the programme, to mitigate a successful provision of sustainable housing, motivated the government to rethink its strategy. Thus, a new approach to housing called, “Breaking New Ground” (BNG, 2004) was launched. Contrary to the old housing approach that focussed on mass delivery, BNG would regard quality and spatial reconfiguration and social-cohesion as vital to the realization of sustainable human settlements. Few years after its introduction, the new housing approach had its own share of challenges. The main aim of this investigation was to critically review the state of low-cost housing programme by establishing whether the 2004 policy revision of the national housing programme has had any significant effect on the low-cost housing programme in the country by assessing some of the recent projects initiated under the ambit of the BNG. Through a multi-case study, the researcher has qualitatively investigated the research question. A multi-data gathering approach, consisting of both qualitative and quantitative data-collection instruments such as open-ended interviews, questionnaires and observations, helped the researcher to answer the questions posed by the study. From the investigation, a blend of successes and failures has been noted. It is undeniable that the low-cost housing programme is still inundated with challenges right under the domain of BNG. It is also irrefutable that many positives on the current and recent low-cost housing projects initiated under BNG can be seen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mkuzo, Tim Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Public housing -- South Africa Housing policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18972 , vital:28761
- Description: Housing is a complex subject and has stimulated thought processes of scholars globally for a long time. Throughout the world, governments are flooded by a myriad of housing challenges associated with the provision of housing. Policy has been used as a communicator of governments’ visions and strategies on housing provision. The apartheid legacies have left the country’s housing terrain totally disfigured. To correct this travesty of justice, the government has resorted to policy and legislative framework. In 1994, the Housing White Paper on housing was introduced as a guiding vehicle of the state’s aspirations in its quest to address spatial inequalities and provide housing to millions who had never had a place they could call home. However, the inability of the programme, to mitigate a successful provision of sustainable housing, motivated the government to rethink its strategy. Thus, a new approach to housing called, “Breaking New Ground” (BNG, 2004) was launched. Contrary to the old housing approach that focussed on mass delivery, BNG would regard quality and spatial reconfiguration and social-cohesion as vital to the realization of sustainable human settlements. Few years after its introduction, the new housing approach had its own share of challenges. The main aim of this investigation was to critically review the state of low-cost housing programme by establishing whether the 2004 policy revision of the national housing programme has had any significant effect on the low-cost housing programme in the country by assessing some of the recent projects initiated under the ambit of the BNG. Through a multi-case study, the researcher has qualitatively investigated the research question. A multi-data gathering approach, consisting of both qualitative and quantitative data-collection instruments such as open-ended interviews, questionnaires and observations, helped the researcher to answer the questions posed by the study. From the investigation, a blend of successes and failures has been noted. It is undeniable that the low-cost housing programme is still inundated with challenges right under the domain of BNG. It is also irrefutable that many positives on the current and recent low-cost housing projects initiated under BNG can be seen.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A data governance maturity evaluation model to enhance data management in Eastern Cape government departments
- Authors: Olaitan, Olutoyin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Electronic government information Data protection Public administration -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7989 , vital:31448
- Description: The governance of data assets has become a topical issue in the public sector. Government departments are faced with increasingly complex data and information arising from multiple projects, different departments, divisions and several stakeholders seeking data for divergent end uses. However, an exploratory study of the literature regarding data governance in government departments of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa suggest that there are no clear data governance processes in place within the departments. The research question “How can a data governance maturity evaluation model enhance data governance processes in the Eastern Cape government departments” was derived as a result of a perceived need for government departments of the province to manage their critical data assets in a manner which promotes accurate, verifiable and relevant fiscal and strategic planning. Following the review of current literature in the data governance domain, a conceptual data governance evaluation maturity model was developed and produced. The conceptual model was influenced by the IBM data governance maturity model (2007) and it was aimed at addressing the gaps in the reference model to suit the context of the Eastern Cape government departments and the governance of their data assets. A qualitative phase of empirical data collection was conducted to test the components of the conceptual model. A quantitative instrument, derived from the findings of the qualitative study, as well as the components of the refined model was administered to 50 participants in the same departments where qualitative data was collected, with additional participants being drawn from three other departments. Pragmatism was the guiding philosophy for the research. The Contingency and Institutional theories form the theoretical grounding for the study. Design Science guidelines by Hevner et al (2004), Peffers et al’s (2008) Six Steps in Design Science and Drechsler & Hevner’s (2016) Fourth Cycle of Design Science were employed to construct, improve, validate and evaluate the final artefact. Findings confirmed the literature that data governance is lacking in government departments. It is asserted that the implementation of this model will improve the way data assets are recorded, used, archived and disposed in government departments of the Eastern Cape. The outcome of this research was the development and production of a data governance maturity evaluation model as well as a process document which gives a roadmap of how to move from one maturity level to another.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Olaitan, Olutoyin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Electronic government information Data protection Public administration -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/7989 , vital:31448
- Description: The governance of data assets has become a topical issue in the public sector. Government departments are faced with increasingly complex data and information arising from multiple projects, different departments, divisions and several stakeholders seeking data for divergent end uses. However, an exploratory study of the literature regarding data governance in government departments of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa suggest that there are no clear data governance processes in place within the departments. The research question “How can a data governance maturity evaluation model enhance data governance processes in the Eastern Cape government departments” was derived as a result of a perceived need for government departments of the province to manage their critical data assets in a manner which promotes accurate, verifiable and relevant fiscal and strategic planning. Following the review of current literature in the data governance domain, a conceptual data governance evaluation maturity model was developed and produced. The conceptual model was influenced by the IBM data governance maturity model (2007) and it was aimed at addressing the gaps in the reference model to suit the context of the Eastern Cape government departments and the governance of their data assets. A qualitative phase of empirical data collection was conducted to test the components of the conceptual model. A quantitative instrument, derived from the findings of the qualitative study, as well as the components of the refined model was administered to 50 participants in the same departments where qualitative data was collected, with additional participants being drawn from three other departments. Pragmatism was the guiding philosophy for the research. The Contingency and Institutional theories form the theoretical grounding for the study. Design Science guidelines by Hevner et al (2004), Peffers et al’s (2008) Six Steps in Design Science and Drechsler & Hevner’s (2016) Fourth Cycle of Design Science were employed to construct, improve, validate and evaluate the final artefact. Findings confirmed the literature that data governance is lacking in government departments. It is asserted that the implementation of this model will improve the way data assets are recorded, used, archived and disposed in government departments of the Eastern Cape. The outcome of this research was the development and production of a data governance maturity evaluation model as well as a process document which gives a roadmap of how to move from one maturity level to another.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A framework for enhancing the effectiveness of strategic leadership in the Eastern Cape Education Department
- Authors: Govender, Surendran Perumal
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Educational leadership Strategic planning Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8598 , vital:33180
- Description: In this study the analysis of the organisational practices in the South African public sector revealed that there is a practical limitation, anchored on the absence of a suitable framework for enhancing the effectiveness of strategic leadership. The research engaged with studies and theories that confirmed that the application of effective strategic leadership enhances the performance of public sector organisations. However, such an analysis revealed no well-defined strategic leadership framework that may be used for improving the successful implementation of programmes in the public sector as a whole and more especially, the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). The study therefore interpreted that a significant improvement in the performance of the ECDoE may be effected through the prioritisation of strategic leadership and thereby enhancing its effectiveness. Hence, the primary research objective for this study was to examine strategic leadership and to consider the variables impacting the application of strategic leadership in the ECDoE, so that a framework may be formulated to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in the ECDoE. The data analysis, research observations, findings and interpretations as well as the literature review enabled the researcher to determine the strategic leadership framework that may be postulated for application in the ECDoE. The research data in essence supports the indications in the literature that strategic leadership has a positive effect on enhancing organisational performance and success. The key findings and significant conclusions drawn from the study indicated a definite need to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in the ECDoE and that the associated leadership challenges in the sector have to be addressed to enable more efficient and effective service delivery, increase learner performance and improve organisational success. The researcher has therefore postulated the framework in figure 10 to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in ECDoE and presents it for consideration by the political and administrative leadership for adoption in the ECDoE. The development of this strategic leadership framework by the researcher was informed by the various leadership models, leadership theories, leadership styles and change management strategies examined in the literature review of this study and further directed by the research findings and conclusions that illuminated the challenges that confront ECDoE in the application of strategic leadership in the sector. The framework postulated has three distinct but inter-related steps and this study theorises that the effectiveness of strategic leadership is influenced by the extent to which the managers or leaders determine the specific context and apply the appropriate leadership style (Step 1), implement the selected leadership style in conjunction with the application of appropriate accompanying management strategies (Step 2), and monitor the resulting effects on enhancing the performance of the public sector organisations (Step 3). The researcher also adopted a systems-thinking approach and identified four pillars that transcend organisational service delivery and integrated them to constitute a proposed model for enhancing service delivery, improving implementation of plans and promoting organisational success in ECDoE. The model postulated by the researcher is based on “policies, procedures, systems and structures”, as illustrated in figure 11. The pillars of this proposed model for service delivery are inter-related, inter-locking and at times overlapping. Arising from the literature review and the case study of ECDoE, areas for further research have been identified such as: a more in-depth probing of the significance, role and impact of strategic leadership in all public sector institutions in South Africa; an examination of the Senior Management Services (SMS) mandates given by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) with regard to strategic leadership; an exploration of the implementation constraints of the National Development Plan (NDP) linked to the positioning of strategic leadership; and, an examination of the role and impact of the training and development programmes in strategic leadership, co-ordinated by the National School of Government (NSG) in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Govender, Surendran Perumal
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Educational leadership Strategic planning Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8598 , vital:33180
- Description: In this study the analysis of the organisational practices in the South African public sector revealed that there is a practical limitation, anchored on the absence of a suitable framework for enhancing the effectiveness of strategic leadership. The research engaged with studies and theories that confirmed that the application of effective strategic leadership enhances the performance of public sector organisations. However, such an analysis revealed no well-defined strategic leadership framework that may be used for improving the successful implementation of programmes in the public sector as a whole and more especially, the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). The study therefore interpreted that a significant improvement in the performance of the ECDoE may be effected through the prioritisation of strategic leadership and thereby enhancing its effectiveness. Hence, the primary research objective for this study was to examine strategic leadership and to consider the variables impacting the application of strategic leadership in the ECDoE, so that a framework may be formulated to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in the ECDoE. The data analysis, research observations, findings and interpretations as well as the literature review enabled the researcher to determine the strategic leadership framework that may be postulated for application in the ECDoE. The research data in essence supports the indications in the literature that strategic leadership has a positive effect on enhancing organisational performance and success. The key findings and significant conclusions drawn from the study indicated a definite need to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in the ECDoE and that the associated leadership challenges in the sector have to be addressed to enable more efficient and effective service delivery, increase learner performance and improve organisational success. The researcher has therefore postulated the framework in figure 10 to enhance the effectiveness of strategic leadership in ECDoE and presents it for consideration by the political and administrative leadership for adoption in the ECDoE. The development of this strategic leadership framework by the researcher was informed by the various leadership models, leadership theories, leadership styles and change management strategies examined in the literature review of this study and further directed by the research findings and conclusions that illuminated the challenges that confront ECDoE in the application of strategic leadership in the sector. The framework postulated has three distinct but inter-related steps and this study theorises that the effectiveness of strategic leadership is influenced by the extent to which the managers or leaders determine the specific context and apply the appropriate leadership style (Step 1), implement the selected leadership style in conjunction with the application of appropriate accompanying management strategies (Step 2), and monitor the resulting effects on enhancing the performance of the public sector organisations (Step 3). The researcher also adopted a systems-thinking approach and identified four pillars that transcend organisational service delivery and integrated them to constitute a proposed model for enhancing service delivery, improving implementation of plans and promoting organisational success in ECDoE. The model postulated by the researcher is based on “policies, procedures, systems and structures”, as illustrated in figure 11. The pillars of this proposed model for service delivery are inter-related, inter-locking and at times overlapping. Arising from the literature review and the case study of ECDoE, areas for further research have been identified such as: a more in-depth probing of the significance, role and impact of strategic leadership in all public sector institutions in South Africa; an examination of the Senior Management Services (SMS) mandates given by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) with regard to strategic leadership; an exploration of the implementation constraints of the National Development Plan (NDP) linked to the positioning of strategic leadership; and, an examination of the role and impact of the training and development programmes in strategic leadership, co-ordinated by the National School of Government (NSG) in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A framework for m-voting implementation in South Africa
- Authors: Mpekoa, Noluntu
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Electronic voting -- South Africa Voting -- Technological innovations , Voting-machines -- South Africa -- Reliability Elections -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19662 , vital:28927
- Description: Voting enables certain formal decisions to be made through the participation of a given population; and it is the vital part of a democratic process. The method of voting used in South Africa (SA) today is derived from the Australian ballot system. This paper-based voting system, however, is slow, convoluted and inaccurate because of human errors; it is costly and largely inefficient. In the early 1900s, election officials overwhelmingly decided to use electronic voting (E-voting) systems to solve some of the problematic issues of paper-based voting systems. Mobile voting (M-voting) is a subset of E-voting; and it allows citizens to use their mobile phones to cast their votes. Very few countries have endeavoured to implement M-voting, in order to improve mobility and simplify the election procedures. Despite several M-voting initiatives reported worldwide; insufficient attention has been devoted to understanding the factors that influence the success or failure of M-voting implementation. It is also important to note that the implementation of M-voting may be very difficult; if the different modalities that aid successful M-voting implementation are not in place. This study seeks to develop a framework that has the potential to enable the successful implementation of M-voting in SA. The proposed framework is an IT artefact that endeavors to improve human experiences for voting. This study followed a Design-Science approach; and it made use of a case study to collect the data via a literature review, observations, questionnaires, focus groups and expert reviews. The study revealed that there is no institutional, legal and regulatory framework for the proliferation of M-voting in SA. Successful M-voting implementation depends on a compendium of factors, which may be unique in the local context where it is implemented. The framework that resulted from the above was assessed for validity and applicability; after which a modified framework was presented. The research concludes with specific implementation guidelines, as well as areas for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mpekoa, Noluntu
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Electronic voting -- South Africa Voting -- Technological innovations , Voting-machines -- South Africa -- Reliability Elections -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19662 , vital:28927
- Description: Voting enables certain formal decisions to be made through the participation of a given population; and it is the vital part of a democratic process. The method of voting used in South Africa (SA) today is derived from the Australian ballot system. This paper-based voting system, however, is slow, convoluted and inaccurate because of human errors; it is costly and largely inefficient. In the early 1900s, election officials overwhelmingly decided to use electronic voting (E-voting) systems to solve some of the problematic issues of paper-based voting systems. Mobile voting (M-voting) is a subset of E-voting; and it allows citizens to use their mobile phones to cast their votes. Very few countries have endeavoured to implement M-voting, in order to improve mobility and simplify the election procedures. Despite several M-voting initiatives reported worldwide; insufficient attention has been devoted to understanding the factors that influence the success or failure of M-voting implementation. It is also important to note that the implementation of M-voting may be very difficult; if the different modalities that aid successful M-voting implementation are not in place. This study seeks to develop a framework that has the potential to enable the successful implementation of M-voting in SA. The proposed framework is an IT artefact that endeavors to improve human experiences for voting. This study followed a Design-Science approach; and it made use of a case study to collect the data via a literature review, observations, questionnaires, focus groups and expert reviews. The study revealed that there is no institutional, legal and regulatory framework for the proliferation of M-voting in SA. Successful M-voting implementation depends on a compendium of factors, which may be unique in the local context where it is implemented. The framework that resulted from the above was assessed for validity and applicability; after which a modified framework was presented. The research concludes with specific implementation guidelines, as well as areas for future research.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A framework for the secure consumerisation of mobile, handheld devices in the healthcare institutional context
- Authors: Kativu, Tatenda Kevin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mobile computing -- Hospitals -- South Africa Electronic data processing -- Security measures -- South Africa , Wireless communication systems -- Social aspects Medical care -- Technological innovations -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18630 , vital:28696
- Description: The advances in communication technologies have resulted in a significant shift in the workplace culture. Mobile computing devices are increasingly becoming an integral part of workplace culture. Mobility has several advantages to the organisation, one such example is the “always online” workforce resulting in increased productivity hours. As a result, organisations are increasingly providing mobile computing devices to the workforce to enable remote productivity at the organisations cost. A challenge associated with mobility is that these devices are likely to connect to a variety of networks, some which may insecure, and because of their smaller form factor and perceived value, are vulnerable to loss and theft amongst other information security challenges. Increased mobility has far reaching benefits for remote and rural communities, particularly in the healthcare domain where health workers are able to provide services to previously inaccessible populations. The adverse economic and infrastructure environment means institution provided devices make up the bulk of the mobile computing devices, and taking away the ownership, the usage patterns and the susceptibility of information to adversity are similar. It is for this reason that this study focuses on information security on institution provided devices in a rural healthcare setting. This study falls into the design science paradigm and is guided by the principles of design science proposed by Hevner et al. The research process incorporates literature reviews focusing on health information systems security and identifying theoretical constructs that support the low-resource based secure deployment of health information technologies. Thereafter, the artifact is developed and evaluated through an implementation case study and expert reviews. The outcomes from the feedback are integrated into the framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Kativu, Tatenda Kevin
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Mobile computing -- Hospitals -- South Africa Electronic data processing -- Security measures -- South Africa , Wireless communication systems -- Social aspects Medical care -- Technological innovations -- Developing countries
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/18630 , vital:28696
- Description: The advances in communication technologies have resulted in a significant shift in the workplace culture. Mobile computing devices are increasingly becoming an integral part of workplace culture. Mobility has several advantages to the organisation, one such example is the “always online” workforce resulting in increased productivity hours. As a result, organisations are increasingly providing mobile computing devices to the workforce to enable remote productivity at the organisations cost. A challenge associated with mobility is that these devices are likely to connect to a variety of networks, some which may insecure, and because of their smaller form factor and perceived value, are vulnerable to loss and theft amongst other information security challenges. Increased mobility has far reaching benefits for remote and rural communities, particularly in the healthcare domain where health workers are able to provide services to previously inaccessible populations. The adverse economic and infrastructure environment means institution provided devices make up the bulk of the mobile computing devices, and taking away the ownership, the usage patterns and the susceptibility of information to adversity are similar. It is for this reason that this study focuses on information security on institution provided devices in a rural healthcare setting. This study falls into the design science paradigm and is guided by the principles of design science proposed by Hevner et al. The research process incorporates literature reviews focusing on health information systems security and identifying theoretical constructs that support the low-resource based secure deployment of health information technologies. Thereafter, the artifact is developed and evaluated through an implementation case study and expert reviews. The outcomes from the feedback are integrated into the framework.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
A strategic framework for managing and implementation of the intergovernmental relations policy in selected Eastern Cape municipalities
- Authors: Shasha, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- South Africa Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8353 , vital:32310
- Description: It is of paramount importance to highlight that the South African government is established in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Whilst the government of South Africa is one, it consists of three spheres namely; national, provincial and local. These spheres of government are naturally distinctive, interdependent and interrelated. This is expressed in terms of section 41(1) of the Constitution, which requires that there should be co-operation, mutual trust and good faith amongst these three spheres of government. This form of a relationship compels different spheres to inform and consult one another on matters of common interest, co-ordinate their legislation, and adhere to agreed procedures in accordance with the provisions of the constitution which is the supreme law of the Republic. The study sort to find a strategic framework for managing and implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Policy in Selected Eastern Cape Municipalities. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify the sample elements. The sample was composed of 160 participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather information pertaining the research problem. A mixed research method was used to analyse the data gathered. The sampled respondents were municipal and government employees from various departments who have knowledge of the IGR policy. The study findings pointed out that the current framework on intergovernmental relations was ineffective in the Eastern Cape municipalities that were surveyed. Respondents pointed to a number of shortfalls in the implementation of the intergovernmental relations, which made it ineffective in improving how these municipalities operated and rendered service delivery. A number of factors inhibiting the effectiveness of the intergovernmental relations included lack of communication, poor coordination, lack of clear strategy, poor budgets amongst other factors. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher developed a strategic framework that could be adopted by municipalities in the Eastern Cape. The functionality of this framework would be influenced by the corrective measures taken by the municipalities in addressing the underlying problems of the current intergovernmental relations, as identified by the respondents.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Shasha, Zamuxolo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Intergovernmental fiscal relations -- South Africa Local government -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8353 , vital:32310
- Description: It is of paramount importance to highlight that the South African government is established in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996. Whilst the government of South Africa is one, it consists of three spheres namely; national, provincial and local. These spheres of government are naturally distinctive, interdependent and interrelated. This is expressed in terms of section 41(1) of the Constitution, which requires that there should be co-operation, mutual trust and good faith amongst these three spheres of government. This form of a relationship compels different spheres to inform and consult one another on matters of common interest, co-ordinate their legislation, and adhere to agreed procedures in accordance with the provisions of the constitution which is the supreme law of the Republic. The study sort to find a strategic framework for managing and implementation of the Intergovernmental Relations Policy in Selected Eastern Cape Municipalities. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify the sample elements. The sample was composed of 160 participants and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the participants to gather information pertaining the research problem. A mixed research method was used to analyse the data gathered. The sampled respondents were municipal and government employees from various departments who have knowledge of the IGR policy. The study findings pointed out that the current framework on intergovernmental relations was ineffective in the Eastern Cape municipalities that were surveyed. Respondents pointed to a number of shortfalls in the implementation of the intergovernmental relations, which made it ineffective in improving how these municipalities operated and rendered service delivery. A number of factors inhibiting the effectiveness of the intergovernmental relations included lack of communication, poor coordination, lack of clear strategy, poor budgets amongst other factors. Based on the findings of the study, the researcher developed a strategic framework that could be adopted by municipalities in the Eastern Cape. The functionality of this framework would be influenced by the corrective measures taken by the municipalities in addressing the underlying problems of the current intergovernmental relations, as identified by the respondents.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 2017
A technical and economic evaluation of a passive underground mine-water purification system (PUMPS): a geothermally powered geo-engineering system designed for in-situ bio-remediation of acid mine water
- Ntholi, Thakane Thato Prudence
- Authors: Ntholi, Thakane Thato Prudence
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Water -- Purification -- South Africa Water -- Purification -- Biological treatment , Mine water -- South Africa -- Evaluation Acid mine drainage -- South Africa Environmental geochemistry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19586 , vital:28900
- Description: PUMPS mimics natural geothermal vents as a conceptual model designed for the remediation of acid mine water (AMW) in voids of abandoned gold mines of the Witwatersrand Basin in South Africa. In this system, a reaction chamber containing Desulfotomaculum kuznetsovii sulfate reducing bacteria will be set at the bottom of a 3-4 km deep mine that will be flooded. A geothermal system with at least one (1) doublet will be drilled from the bottom of the mine to the depth of 8km, where the temperatures are sufficient for geothermal energy harvesting. AMW, used as a geothermal fluid, will be pumped down the injection well and circulate through hot rock. The hot water is then used to generate electricity and then channelled into the reaction chamber to undergo bio-remediation. Following treatment, the water flows back into the mine voids where it will improve the quality of untreated AMW through dilution. Eventually, the mine will be flooded with clean water that can be stored underground and/or pumped up to surface for social and ecosystem services. Following an introduction and proof of concept for the PUMPS, the research builds further on the technical and economic evaluation of the PUMPS in order to assert its viability and sustainability. The technical viability includes testing the ability for Desulfotomaculum kuznetsovii to survive in high pressure condition; quantifying the amount of energy that can be drawn from the geothermal reservoir; determining the placement and scheme of the geothermal wells; and, finally, developing a robust economic model of the system. Experiments show that Desulfotomaculum Kuznetsovii can tolerate high pressure conditions in of at least 100bar at their ideal sulfate reducing temperature of 63°C. Geochemical modelling shows that AMW can be used effectively as a geothermal fluid for PUMPS. To achieve highest efficiency and minimal fluid loss, the geothermal wells should be placed along the SSE-NNW direction, based on the known stress field across the Witwatersrand Basin. With a flow rate of 30l/s the energy drawn from the geothermal reservoir is sufficient to drive PUMPS and the surplus energy is determined by the volume of AMW treated per day. All results indicate that the PUMPS is technically and economically viable. The economic model shows that the value and viability of the PUMPS is best reflected with a comprehensive inclusion of potential revenue (for example from chemical solution mining of deep seated gold) and financial/environmental incentives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Ntholi, Thakane Thato Prudence
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Water -- Purification -- South Africa Water -- Purification -- Biological treatment , Mine water -- South Africa -- Evaluation Acid mine drainage -- South Africa Environmental geochemistry -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19586 , vital:28900
- Description: PUMPS mimics natural geothermal vents as a conceptual model designed for the remediation of acid mine water (AMW) in voids of abandoned gold mines of the Witwatersrand Basin in South Africa. In this system, a reaction chamber containing Desulfotomaculum kuznetsovii sulfate reducing bacteria will be set at the bottom of a 3-4 km deep mine that will be flooded. A geothermal system with at least one (1) doublet will be drilled from the bottom of the mine to the depth of 8km, where the temperatures are sufficient for geothermal energy harvesting. AMW, used as a geothermal fluid, will be pumped down the injection well and circulate through hot rock. The hot water is then used to generate electricity and then channelled into the reaction chamber to undergo bio-remediation. Following treatment, the water flows back into the mine voids where it will improve the quality of untreated AMW through dilution. Eventually, the mine will be flooded with clean water that can be stored underground and/or pumped up to surface for social and ecosystem services. Following an introduction and proof of concept for the PUMPS, the research builds further on the technical and economic evaluation of the PUMPS in order to assert its viability and sustainability. The technical viability includes testing the ability for Desulfotomaculum kuznetsovii to survive in high pressure condition; quantifying the amount of energy that can be drawn from the geothermal reservoir; determining the placement and scheme of the geothermal wells; and, finally, developing a robust economic model of the system. Experiments show that Desulfotomaculum Kuznetsovii can tolerate high pressure conditions in of at least 100bar at their ideal sulfate reducing temperature of 63°C. Geochemical modelling shows that AMW can be used effectively as a geothermal fluid for PUMPS. To achieve highest efficiency and minimal fluid loss, the geothermal wells should be placed along the SSE-NNW direction, based on the known stress field across the Witwatersrand Basin. With a flow rate of 30l/s the energy drawn from the geothermal reservoir is sufficient to drive PUMPS and the surplus energy is determined by the volume of AMW treated per day. All results indicate that the PUMPS is technically and economically viable. The economic model shows that the value and viability of the PUMPS is best reflected with a comprehensive inclusion of potential revenue (for example from chemical solution mining of deep seated gold) and financial/environmental incentives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Adoption and up scaling of conservation agriculture in Malawi
- Authors: Paul, John Mussa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Agricultural conservation -- Malawi , Conservation of natural resources -- Malawi Agriculture -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19717 , vital:28943
- Description: Conservation agriculture (CA) has been widely recommended as one of the best ‘climate smart’ agriculture (CSA) practices in many regions of Africa and beyond. It helps to cushion smallholder farmers from the impacts of climate variability and change manifested through erratic rainfall, prolonged dry spells and droughts. CA is a preferred strategy for rehabilitating degraded agricultural land by improving its soil health for optimal crop production. However, adoption and upscaling of this farming practice in many African countries, which face critical challenges of food insecurity and soil degradation, including Malawi, is not significantly expanding despite these established benefits. This participatory action research study therefore explored factors limiting CA adoption and upscaling among the smallholder farmers in Khombedza Extension Planning Area where Total LandCare, the Malawian Ministry of Agriculture and other NGOs have been supporting farmers to adopt CA practices for more than five years. Participatory approaches were used throughout the research process for data collection, with farmers acting as co-researchers as they are best placed to identify the farming challenges and recommend solutions. Key informant interviews and field observations complemented and validated some of the results from the participatory rural appraisal (PRA) activities. The study findings revealed a number of factors behind low CA adoption and upscaling, with many relating to the poor extension system promoted by NGOs and government extension staff. Other factors relate to farmers’ perceptions and are linked to the CA system itself. The on-farm participatory training clarified the majority of farmers’ understanding and changed their mindset towards CA practices, which in turn increased its visibility in terms of adoption and scale of upscaling across the villages under study. In trying to address the poor extension system, as observed and reported by the majority of participants, the research practically tested a “Farmer Neighbourhood (FN) model”, which provided a greater opportunity for farm level interactive learning and provision of better farmer-to-farmer and farmer-to-field staff extension support. The majority of participants and field staff, as well as members of the National Conservation Agriculture Task Force (NCATF) in Malawi, made a recommendation to replicate this model of targeting and supporting farmers in order to increase CA visibility throughout the country. Participation and interactive farmer learning emerged as major themes, which guided successful implementation of the research whilst addressing the research questions and objectives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Paul, John Mussa
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Agricultural conservation -- Malawi , Conservation of natural resources -- Malawi Agriculture -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19717 , vital:28943
- Description: Conservation agriculture (CA) has been widely recommended as one of the best ‘climate smart’ agriculture (CSA) practices in many regions of Africa and beyond. It helps to cushion smallholder farmers from the impacts of climate variability and change manifested through erratic rainfall, prolonged dry spells and droughts. CA is a preferred strategy for rehabilitating degraded agricultural land by improving its soil health for optimal crop production. However, adoption and upscaling of this farming practice in many African countries, which face critical challenges of food insecurity and soil degradation, including Malawi, is not significantly expanding despite these established benefits. This participatory action research study therefore explored factors limiting CA adoption and upscaling among the smallholder farmers in Khombedza Extension Planning Area where Total LandCare, the Malawian Ministry of Agriculture and other NGOs have been supporting farmers to adopt CA practices for more than five years. Participatory approaches were used throughout the research process for data collection, with farmers acting as co-researchers as they are best placed to identify the farming challenges and recommend solutions. Key informant interviews and field observations complemented and validated some of the results from the participatory rural appraisal (PRA) activities. The study findings revealed a number of factors behind low CA adoption and upscaling, with many relating to the poor extension system promoted by NGOs and government extension staff. Other factors relate to farmers’ perceptions and are linked to the CA system itself. The on-farm participatory training clarified the majority of farmers’ understanding and changed their mindset towards CA practices, which in turn increased its visibility in terms of adoption and scale of upscaling across the villages under study. In trying to address the poor extension system, as observed and reported by the majority of participants, the research practically tested a “Farmer Neighbourhood (FN) model”, which provided a greater opportunity for farm level interactive learning and provision of better farmer-to-farmer and farmer-to-field staff extension support. The majority of participants and field staff, as well as members of the National Conservation Agriculture Task Force (NCATF) in Malawi, made a recommendation to replicate this model of targeting and supporting farmers in order to increase CA visibility throughout the country. Participation and interactive farmer learning emerged as major themes, which guided successful implementation of the research whilst addressing the research questions and objectives.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An analysis of teachers' experiences in using English as medium of instruction among grade 4 learners in Maluti district
- Authors: Rabelemane, Tsielo Aron
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching Language and languages -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8221 , vital:32058
- Description: The issue of medium of instruction has been a growing concern for most researchers, especially in contexts where English is used as medium of instruction at the expense of the learner’s mother tongue. In a South African context, the problem is being aggravated by the fact that English becomes a language of learning and teaching in Grade 4 whereas the learners’ medium of instruction in the lower grades has been their mother tongue and therefore did not have a firm grasp of the English language. Subsequently, there is a general outcry in South Africa that the shift from mother tongue to English as language of learning and teaching happens too early. The objectives in this thesis were to examine the experiences faced by Grade 4 teachers in using English as language of learning and teaching; to determine how these experiences impinge on learning and teaching in Grade 4 and to determine whether the teachers’ perceptions of English as the language of learning and teaching impinges on the success of the Grade 4 learners. The theoretical framework of this study is based on bilingualism and multilingualism theories. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in the study. The study followed a survey design and both purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used. A sample of 100 teachers from 30 selected schools was chosen. The researcher collected data using individual interviews, questionnaires and observation. The qualitative data was analysed thematically whereas SPSS was used for the quantitative data. The findings of the study revealed that learners lacked confidence in expressing themselves in English in front of their peers and as a result the majority of learners did not participate in class when teachers were teaching in English. The results further showed that learners were passive due to poor understanding of the English language which sometimes resulted in communication breakdown between the teacher and the learner. The researcher recommended that the Government should provide the teachers with workshops that will unpack the strategies of teaching Grade 4 learners in using English as a medium of instruction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Rabelemane, Tsielo Aron
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: English language -- Study and teaching Language and languages -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8221 , vital:32058
- Description: The issue of medium of instruction has been a growing concern for most researchers, especially in contexts where English is used as medium of instruction at the expense of the learner’s mother tongue. In a South African context, the problem is being aggravated by the fact that English becomes a language of learning and teaching in Grade 4 whereas the learners’ medium of instruction in the lower grades has been their mother tongue and therefore did not have a firm grasp of the English language. Subsequently, there is a general outcry in South Africa that the shift from mother tongue to English as language of learning and teaching happens too early. The objectives in this thesis were to examine the experiences faced by Grade 4 teachers in using English as language of learning and teaching; to determine how these experiences impinge on learning and teaching in Grade 4 and to determine whether the teachers’ perceptions of English as the language of learning and teaching impinges on the success of the Grade 4 learners. The theoretical framework of this study is based on bilingualism and multilingualism theories. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in the study. The study followed a survey design and both purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used. A sample of 100 teachers from 30 selected schools was chosen. The researcher collected data using individual interviews, questionnaires and observation. The qualitative data was analysed thematically whereas SPSS was used for the quantitative data. The findings of the study revealed that learners lacked confidence in expressing themselves in English in front of their peers and as a result the majority of learners did not participate in class when teachers were teaching in English. The results further showed that learners were passive due to poor understanding of the English language which sometimes resulted in communication breakdown between the teacher and the learner. The researcher recommended that the Government should provide the teachers with workshops that will unpack the strategies of teaching Grade 4 learners in using English as a medium of instruction.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An assessment of the Millennium Development Goal's poverty reduction target in Ogun State, Nigeria
- Durokifa, Anuoluwapo Abosede
- Authors: Durokifa, Anuoluwapo Abosede
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Millennium Development Goals Economic development projects -- Nigeria Sustainable development -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4649 , vital:28483
- Description: Nigeria, like many nations of the world, is confronted with a high level of poverty. Over the years the country has taken several initiatives to reduce the incidence of poverty. Nigeria was one of the earliest countries to adopt the Millennium Development Goals [MDGs] as a strategy in reducing poverty and promoting development across the vast nation. The federating states have also rolled out a number of poverty reduction programmes tailored along the millennium development goals. This study, therefore, evaluates the achievement of the millennium development poverty reduction target in Ogun State, South west Nigeria. The study seeks to ascertain whether the state was able to significantly reduce poverty with the introduction of the MDGs. The study also attempts to establish difference or similarity (if any) between past poverty reduction policies in the state and the MDGs poverty reduction strategies. In carrying out this study, related literature on poverty, development and poverty reduction efforts (strategies and programmes) implemented in the state were extensively reviewed and relevant information retrieved for the study. This study employed the mixed method research, comprising both the quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data through the administration of a questionnaire was obtained from 232 respondents. While in-depth interview with seven participants provided the qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using Descriptive statistics, and chi-square statistical technique was used to analyze the quantitative data while qualitative data analysis was carried out using transcription and thematic clusters. The findings of the study, in general, revealed that the MDG poverty reduction strategy did not make any significant contribution in reducing poverty in the state. The MDG strategy was not any different from past poverty reduction strategies implemented in the state. The findings of the research also strongly indicated that there was low awareness regarding the MDGs poverty reduction strategies set up amongst the citizens of the state. The low awareness emerged as a major hindrance to the success of the MDG programme. Based on the findings of this study, a sustainable development poverty reduction model was developed. The model gives room for programme awareness; people’s consultation and participation. It emphasizes the need to consider the community setting or environment factors in the planning and execution of poverty reduction programme. This model contend that aligning strategies to the peculiar need of each environment is a critical component for the sustenance of any poverty reduction programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Durokifa, Anuoluwapo Abosede
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Millennium Development Goals Economic development projects -- Nigeria Sustainable development -- Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4649 , vital:28483
- Description: Nigeria, like many nations of the world, is confronted with a high level of poverty. Over the years the country has taken several initiatives to reduce the incidence of poverty. Nigeria was one of the earliest countries to adopt the Millennium Development Goals [MDGs] as a strategy in reducing poverty and promoting development across the vast nation. The federating states have also rolled out a number of poverty reduction programmes tailored along the millennium development goals. This study, therefore, evaluates the achievement of the millennium development poverty reduction target in Ogun State, South west Nigeria. The study seeks to ascertain whether the state was able to significantly reduce poverty with the introduction of the MDGs. The study also attempts to establish difference or similarity (if any) between past poverty reduction policies in the state and the MDGs poverty reduction strategies. In carrying out this study, related literature on poverty, development and poverty reduction efforts (strategies and programmes) implemented in the state were extensively reviewed and relevant information retrieved for the study. This study employed the mixed method research, comprising both the quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data through the administration of a questionnaire was obtained from 232 respondents. While in-depth interview with seven participants provided the qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using Descriptive statistics, and chi-square statistical technique was used to analyze the quantitative data while qualitative data analysis was carried out using transcription and thematic clusters. The findings of the study, in general, revealed that the MDG poverty reduction strategy did not make any significant contribution in reducing poverty in the state. The MDG strategy was not any different from past poverty reduction strategies implemented in the state. The findings of the research also strongly indicated that there was low awareness regarding the MDGs poverty reduction strategies set up amongst the citizens of the state. The low awareness emerged as a major hindrance to the success of the MDG programme. Based on the findings of this study, a sustainable development poverty reduction model was developed. The model gives room for programme awareness; people’s consultation and participation. It emphasizes the need to consider the community setting or environment factors in the planning and execution of poverty reduction programme. This model contend that aligning strategies to the peculiar need of each environment is a critical component for the sustenance of any poverty reduction programme.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
An ICT strategy for sustainable tourism in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Tsokota, Theo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Information technology -- Zimbabwe , Technological innovations -- Zimbabwe Tourism -- Zimbabwe -- Computer network resources Tourism -- Zimbabwe -- Data processing Tourism -- Environmental aspects -- Zimbabwe Sustainable tourism -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21340 , vital:29479
- Description: This research sought to develop an ICT strategy for sustainable tourism in Zimbabwe. The Government of Zimbabwe has identified ICT and tourism both as strategic industries and pillars for economic revival. The tourism sector was identified as an essential source of foreign exchange earnings and as a means to drive the economy to greater heights and reduce poverty through direct employment in down-stream and up-stream industries. Despite being endowed with rich natural resources that include five World Natural Heritage sites, exquisite flora and fauna. Zimbabwe is not performing well in the world tourism sector. The Southern African country continues to be ranked low on World Economic Forum Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index. Despite the country‘s strengths, in terms of endowments, the low Tourism and Travel Competitiveness Index suggests weaknesses in related areas. There is currently no clear strategy for the sustainable use of ICT in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe. Despite huge investments and advances in ICT, services in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe continue to be delivered manually and in traditional ways. Therefore, this research sought to propose a strategy for the sustainable use of ICT in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe. However, this strategy had to be informed and supported by an empirical study of the shortcomings in the existing situation in the tourism sector. In order to achieve this objective, this research, which is a comprehensive case study on the tourism sector in Zimbabwe, deployed semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, observations and netnography to collect data. The case study was carried out in accordance with the steps for conducting a case as outlined by Yin guided by an interpretive paradigm. The entities and organisations that formed part of the case study were purposefully chosen to provide a representative sample of the tourism role-players in Zimbabwe. The samples were based on sample variation and feasibility (taking into consideration factors such as geographical location, organisational thrust and size). Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with various role-players in the tourism sector. The role-players interviewed included officials from the government, the regulator and from the service providers. The interviews were held in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Chinhoyi, Matopos, Hwange and Victoria Falls. A Zimbabwe annual premier tourism expo, Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel and Tourism Africa Fair, was also attended in order to interact with various players and to conduct formal and informal interviews. The questionnaires, which were completed by tourists, were administered in Harare, Hwange, Victoria Falls, Matopos, and the Beitbridge and Kazungula border posts. An online version of the questionnaire was also administered. The questionnaire link was e-mailed to tourists, as some of them did not have enough time to complete them during their stay in Zimbabwe and agreed to do so via email. The data was analysed in two phases - structured coding and thematic analysis. . Key factors were identified through structural coding and thematic analysis. Country-specific, sector-specific and organisationalspecific factors were identified for tourists, the government, the regulator and service providers. After a further analysis of the results, those that pointed to the same factors were grouped together and a deduction was made as a diagnosis of the problem was identified. The identified problems were synthesised into seven diagnostics: (i) lack of infrastructure and enabling services; (ii) e-customer relationship management; (iii) lack of collaboration and poor systems integration, (iv) policy and regulation; (v) lack of financial resources; (vi) poor ICT governance and (vii) poor human resource development. A guiding policy was then identified for each of the diagnostics, leading to a set of coherent actions. The research also showed the implementation of this set of actions that consisting of three layers, namely, government, regulator and service providers. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a clear strategy formulation model and showing how the implementation will be rolled out. The ICT-related challenges were diagnosed, guiding policies formulated to address the situation and required coherent actions suggested. This research is deemed to be significant for understanding the future of ICT use in developing countries like Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Tsokota, Theo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Information technology -- Zimbabwe , Technological innovations -- Zimbabwe Tourism -- Zimbabwe -- Computer network resources Tourism -- Zimbabwe -- Data processing Tourism -- Environmental aspects -- Zimbabwe Sustainable tourism -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/21340 , vital:29479
- Description: This research sought to develop an ICT strategy for sustainable tourism in Zimbabwe. The Government of Zimbabwe has identified ICT and tourism both as strategic industries and pillars for economic revival. The tourism sector was identified as an essential source of foreign exchange earnings and as a means to drive the economy to greater heights and reduce poverty through direct employment in down-stream and up-stream industries. Despite being endowed with rich natural resources that include five World Natural Heritage sites, exquisite flora and fauna. Zimbabwe is not performing well in the world tourism sector. The Southern African country continues to be ranked low on World Economic Forum Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index. Despite the country‘s strengths, in terms of endowments, the low Tourism and Travel Competitiveness Index suggests weaknesses in related areas. There is currently no clear strategy for the sustainable use of ICT in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe. Despite huge investments and advances in ICT, services in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe continue to be delivered manually and in traditional ways. Therefore, this research sought to propose a strategy for the sustainable use of ICT in the tourism sector in Zimbabwe. However, this strategy had to be informed and supported by an empirical study of the shortcomings in the existing situation in the tourism sector. In order to achieve this objective, this research, which is a comprehensive case study on the tourism sector in Zimbabwe, deployed semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, observations and netnography to collect data. The case study was carried out in accordance with the steps for conducting a case as outlined by Yin guided by an interpretive paradigm. The entities and organisations that formed part of the case study were purposefully chosen to provide a representative sample of the tourism role-players in Zimbabwe. The samples were based on sample variation and feasibility (taking into consideration factors such as geographical location, organisational thrust and size). Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with various role-players in the tourism sector. The role-players interviewed included officials from the government, the regulator and from the service providers. The interviews were held in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Chinhoyi, Matopos, Hwange and Victoria Falls. A Zimbabwe annual premier tourism expo, Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel and Tourism Africa Fair, was also attended in order to interact with various players and to conduct formal and informal interviews. The questionnaires, which were completed by tourists, were administered in Harare, Hwange, Victoria Falls, Matopos, and the Beitbridge and Kazungula border posts. An online version of the questionnaire was also administered. The questionnaire link was e-mailed to tourists, as some of them did not have enough time to complete them during their stay in Zimbabwe and agreed to do so via email. The data was analysed in two phases - structured coding and thematic analysis. . Key factors were identified through structural coding and thematic analysis. Country-specific, sector-specific and organisationalspecific factors were identified for tourists, the government, the regulator and service providers. After a further analysis of the results, those that pointed to the same factors were grouped together and a deduction was made as a diagnosis of the problem was identified. The identified problems were synthesised into seven diagnostics: (i) lack of infrastructure and enabling services; (ii) e-customer relationship management; (iii) lack of collaboration and poor systems integration, (iv) policy and regulation; (v) lack of financial resources; (vi) poor ICT governance and (vii) poor human resource development. A guiding policy was then identified for each of the diagnostics, leading to a set of coherent actions. The research also showed the implementation of this set of actions that consisting of three layers, namely, government, regulator and service providers. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a clear strategy formulation model and showing how the implementation will be rolled out. The ICT-related challenges were diagnosed, guiding policies formulated to address the situation and required coherent actions suggested. This research is deemed to be significant for understanding the future of ICT use in developing countries like Zimbabwe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Appraisal of experimental performance and modelling of an on-farm dairy milk bulk cooler: Fort Hare Dairy Trust, South Africa
- Authors: Mhundwa, Russel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Milk -- Cooling Milk -- Cooling -- Equipment and supplies Milk tanks -- Specifications
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4671 , vital:28487
- Description: South Africa contributes approximately 0.5 percent to the total world milk demand and is the third largest producer of fresh cow milk in Africa after Sudan and Kenya. In comparison to any other enterprise, the cost of milk production is influenced by numerous factors, that in turn affect the profitability of the farm enterprise; however one of such factors is high electricity cost. In this regard, there is need for efficient operation of the milk processing plant at all stages and at the same time maximising on product quality and minimising on the cost of production including energy. At the dairy farm, milk handling mainly commences as the milk leaves the cow udder at 35°C–37°C and must be cooled rapidly to a storage temperature of 4°C in a bid to stop microbial activity. The cooling of the milk can be done directly by the bulk milk cooler (BMC) from 37°C to the required storage temperature of 4°C or it can be done successively through pre-cooling. The process of pre-cooling involves the use of a heat exchanger where in most instances the plate heat exchanger (PHE) is used as the pre-cooler (PC) thereby leading to energy savings in a dairy facility. Cooling of milk involves significant amount of energy and it could account for about 20 percent of the total energy consumed on a farm. The aim of the research was to develop mathematical models that could be used to predict the electrical energy performance and capture the cooling saving of an on-farm direct expansion bulk milk cooler (DXBMC) during the milk cooling process. Accordingly, data acquisition system (DAS) was designed and built to accurately measure the power consumption of the BMC, temperature of raw milk, room temperature, temperature of cold water, relative humidity and ambient temperature. The volume of milk produced per day was extracted from the daily records on the farm. In addition, the temperature sensors were connected to a four channel HOBO data loggers which were configured to log at every five-minutes interval. The results were analysed and the mathematical models were developed using MATLAB. The statistical Toolbox in MATLAB was used to rank the predictors according to their weight of importance using the ReliefF Algorithm test. The results showed that on average, the daily electrical energy consumed by the BMC at the two milking times was higher during the peak period (127.82 kWh and 93.86 kWh) than the off-peak period (48.31 kWh and 43.23 kWh). On average, the electricity used for cooling of milk on the dairy farm was 17.06 kWh/m3 of milk. The average monthly electricity used per cow on the farm was 8.03 kWh/cow which translated to an average of 0.26 kWh/cow/day The average specific energy consumption of the cooling system per litre of milk cooled was 0.02 kWh/L and was almost constant throughout the whole period of monitoring. Furthermore, the BMC was able to cool 57.33 L/kWh during the off-peak period which increased by 7.7 percent to 62.13 L/kWh during the peak period. Furthermore, mathematical models represented as multiple linear regression (MLR) models were built and developed using the experimental data. The developed mathematical models had good agreement with the experimental data as evidenced by the correlation coefficients of 0.922 and 0.8995 along with 0.935 and 0.930. The ReliefF Algorithm test revealed that the volume of milk was the principal contributor to the energy consumption of the BMC for both the morning (AM) and afternoon (PM) milking period. The Relative Prediction Error (RPE) was used to evaluate the suitability of the developed models. In this light, the AM off-peak model had RPE of 18.54 percent while the PM off-peak model had 14.42 percent. In addition, the AM peak and PM peak models had RPE of 19.23 percent and 18.95 percent respectively. This suggested that the MLR models for the off-peak and peak milking periods (both AM and PM) had acceptable prediction accuracy since the RPE values were between 10 percent and 20 percent. The findings from the experimental study showed that the coefficient of performance (COP) of the AM milking period was higher (2.20) than that of the PM milking period of the BMC (1.93). Increase in the milk volume led to an increase in the COP such that the peak period with higher milk volumes recorded a high COP increase of 12.61 percent and 19.81 percent for the AM and PM milking periods respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mhundwa, Russel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Milk -- Cooling Milk -- Cooling -- Equipment and supplies Milk tanks -- Specifications
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/4671 , vital:28487
- Description: South Africa contributes approximately 0.5 percent to the total world milk demand and is the third largest producer of fresh cow milk in Africa after Sudan and Kenya. In comparison to any other enterprise, the cost of milk production is influenced by numerous factors, that in turn affect the profitability of the farm enterprise; however one of such factors is high electricity cost. In this regard, there is need for efficient operation of the milk processing plant at all stages and at the same time maximising on product quality and minimising on the cost of production including energy. At the dairy farm, milk handling mainly commences as the milk leaves the cow udder at 35°C–37°C and must be cooled rapidly to a storage temperature of 4°C in a bid to stop microbial activity. The cooling of the milk can be done directly by the bulk milk cooler (BMC) from 37°C to the required storage temperature of 4°C or it can be done successively through pre-cooling. The process of pre-cooling involves the use of a heat exchanger where in most instances the plate heat exchanger (PHE) is used as the pre-cooler (PC) thereby leading to energy savings in a dairy facility. Cooling of milk involves significant amount of energy and it could account for about 20 percent of the total energy consumed on a farm. The aim of the research was to develop mathematical models that could be used to predict the electrical energy performance and capture the cooling saving of an on-farm direct expansion bulk milk cooler (DXBMC) during the milk cooling process. Accordingly, data acquisition system (DAS) was designed and built to accurately measure the power consumption of the BMC, temperature of raw milk, room temperature, temperature of cold water, relative humidity and ambient temperature. The volume of milk produced per day was extracted from the daily records on the farm. In addition, the temperature sensors were connected to a four channel HOBO data loggers which were configured to log at every five-minutes interval. The results were analysed and the mathematical models were developed using MATLAB. The statistical Toolbox in MATLAB was used to rank the predictors according to their weight of importance using the ReliefF Algorithm test. The results showed that on average, the daily electrical energy consumed by the BMC at the two milking times was higher during the peak period (127.82 kWh and 93.86 kWh) than the off-peak period (48.31 kWh and 43.23 kWh). On average, the electricity used for cooling of milk on the dairy farm was 17.06 kWh/m3 of milk. The average monthly electricity used per cow on the farm was 8.03 kWh/cow which translated to an average of 0.26 kWh/cow/day The average specific energy consumption of the cooling system per litre of milk cooled was 0.02 kWh/L and was almost constant throughout the whole period of monitoring. Furthermore, the BMC was able to cool 57.33 L/kWh during the off-peak period which increased by 7.7 percent to 62.13 L/kWh during the peak period. Furthermore, mathematical models represented as multiple linear regression (MLR) models were built and developed using the experimental data. The developed mathematical models had good agreement with the experimental data as evidenced by the correlation coefficients of 0.922 and 0.8995 along with 0.935 and 0.930. The ReliefF Algorithm test revealed that the volume of milk was the principal contributor to the energy consumption of the BMC for both the morning (AM) and afternoon (PM) milking period. The Relative Prediction Error (RPE) was used to evaluate the suitability of the developed models. In this light, the AM off-peak model had RPE of 18.54 percent while the PM off-peak model had 14.42 percent. In addition, the AM peak and PM peak models had RPE of 19.23 percent and 18.95 percent respectively. This suggested that the MLR models for the off-peak and peak milking periods (both AM and PM) had acceptable prediction accuracy since the RPE values were between 10 percent and 20 percent. The findings from the experimental study showed that the coefficient of performance (COP) of the AM milking period was higher (2.20) than that of the PM milking period of the BMC (1.93). Increase in the milk volume led to an increase in the COP such that the peak period with higher milk volumes recorded a high COP increase of 12.61 percent and 19.81 percent for the AM and PM milking periods respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Best practice strategies to eradicate business growth challenges of female-owned small businesses in Uganda
- Authors: Mbidde, Cathy Ikiror
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Women-owned business enterprises -- Uganda , Self-employed women -- Uganda Businesswomen -- Uganda Small business -- Uganda -- Growth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19004 , vital:28764
- Description: Small businesses of which the majority are female-owned are the backbone of many economies across the globe. Despite the increasingly important role of female-owned small businesses to economic development and poverty alleviation, the growth of female-owned businesses in Uganda remains a major concern. The purpose of this study, therefore, was twofold – to identify business growth challenges of female small business entrepreneurs in Uganda and also to identify the strategies for overcoming these small business growth challenges to add to existing theory within the small business management field. The study followed a qualitative research with an exploratory descriptive case study design approach. A comprehensive international and national literature on female entrepreneurship, the Ugandan business environment, small business growth challenges in Uganda, and global best practice strategies for stimulating small business growth was conducted. Primary data were collected using face-to-face and telephonic interviews with semi-structured interview guides. Twelve (three female small business entrepreneurs and nine small business support specialists) participants were selected using purposive, theoretical, and expert sampling methods. The biographical profiles of the participants interviewed during the study were presented as case studies. Firstly, the biographical profiles of the three Ugandan small businesses (supermarket, restaurant and hairdressing salon) and the female entrepreneurs were presented. Secondly, the biographical profiles of the nine small business support institutions (two governmental, two funding, two training, one export promotion) and two business associations, as well as the profile of the small business support specialists were presented. Based on the content analysis of the qualitative interviews with the three female small business entrepreneurs, their current business status revealed that the female entrepreneurs have growth aspirations and aligned their goals towards it, but did not have strategies in place to effect business growth. Further still, based on the empirical results of the female small business participants, eight main challenges were identified as: lack of adequate business support and business skills training; demanding and costly business registration and trading license processes; high business taxation; access to finance; inadequate road infrastructure; family-related issues and cultural taboos. These participants also suggested some solutions to overcome these challenges. The small business support specialist participants either confirmed the challenges that specifically females experience or confirmed that they are perceived and not real challenges, or that it is not female-specific but generic to all small businesses. The study further established what female small business participants regard as possible strategies to the challenges experienced, while the small business support specialist participants could indicate which strategies have already been implemented and also suggest further strategies. It was concluded that although many of the challenges could apply to all small businesses, this study found that cultural taboos and family-related issues are a real challenge for female small business entrepreneurs. As seen in this study, these two main challenges can further influence some of the other challenges. It can influence whether qualifying for access to funding, having extra funding to pay for registration, licensing and tax, what the business is allowed to sell, and even the novelty of a female owing a business, never mind wishing to grow their businesses. Although some challenges such as discrimination against female entrepreneurs regarding access to small business support or funding is perceived, there are real infrastructure challenges such as rural road conditions, access to electricity and ICT. Several strategies are already in place in Uganda to assist all small businesses with business growth, but not necessarily just assisting female small business entrepreneurs. However, many of these strategies are work-in-progress and have not yet had the desired end result. This study made a contribution to knowledge by indicating that government-, skills training-, financial- and export promotion institutions, as well as business associations together with influential community members, can contribute significantly to the implementation of several strategies to promote female small business growth. In addition, the chapter on best practices of global developed – and developing countries provided insight into making well-informed practical recommendations that Uganda can implement to assist small businesses to grow and in particular females small businesses. These global best practice strategies for the growth of SMMEs as applied within the seven selected seven countries were elaborated on in detail with a clear indication of the responsible bodies in Uganda that can affect these strategies. The emphasis was on suggesting strategies that can be practically executed with relative ease in Uganda as a developing country. This study concludes that it remains the responsibility of female small business entrepreneurs to make the effort to grow their small businesses and turn their business visions into reality. They should write a business plan, search for and approach small business support institutions for assistance and engage in an extensive networking drive to grow their customer market and to search for opportunities to grow their business such as private-public sector partnerships or expansion into the international market. Awareness is not just the responsibility of the several small business support institutions in Uganda, but female small business entrepreneurs should actively scrutinise media reports in newspapers, the radio and television to obtain information regarding business support opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mbidde, Cathy Ikiror
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Women-owned business enterprises -- Uganda , Self-employed women -- Uganda Businesswomen -- Uganda Small business -- Uganda -- Growth
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/19004 , vital:28764
- Description: Small businesses of which the majority are female-owned are the backbone of many economies across the globe. Despite the increasingly important role of female-owned small businesses to economic development and poverty alleviation, the growth of female-owned businesses in Uganda remains a major concern. The purpose of this study, therefore, was twofold – to identify business growth challenges of female small business entrepreneurs in Uganda and also to identify the strategies for overcoming these small business growth challenges to add to existing theory within the small business management field. The study followed a qualitative research with an exploratory descriptive case study design approach. A comprehensive international and national literature on female entrepreneurship, the Ugandan business environment, small business growth challenges in Uganda, and global best practice strategies for stimulating small business growth was conducted. Primary data were collected using face-to-face and telephonic interviews with semi-structured interview guides. Twelve (three female small business entrepreneurs and nine small business support specialists) participants were selected using purposive, theoretical, and expert sampling methods. The biographical profiles of the participants interviewed during the study were presented as case studies. Firstly, the biographical profiles of the three Ugandan small businesses (supermarket, restaurant and hairdressing salon) and the female entrepreneurs were presented. Secondly, the biographical profiles of the nine small business support institutions (two governmental, two funding, two training, one export promotion) and two business associations, as well as the profile of the small business support specialists were presented. Based on the content analysis of the qualitative interviews with the three female small business entrepreneurs, their current business status revealed that the female entrepreneurs have growth aspirations and aligned their goals towards it, but did not have strategies in place to effect business growth. Further still, based on the empirical results of the female small business participants, eight main challenges were identified as: lack of adequate business support and business skills training; demanding and costly business registration and trading license processes; high business taxation; access to finance; inadequate road infrastructure; family-related issues and cultural taboos. These participants also suggested some solutions to overcome these challenges. The small business support specialist participants either confirmed the challenges that specifically females experience or confirmed that they are perceived and not real challenges, or that it is not female-specific but generic to all small businesses. The study further established what female small business participants regard as possible strategies to the challenges experienced, while the small business support specialist participants could indicate which strategies have already been implemented and also suggest further strategies. It was concluded that although many of the challenges could apply to all small businesses, this study found that cultural taboos and family-related issues are a real challenge for female small business entrepreneurs. As seen in this study, these two main challenges can further influence some of the other challenges. It can influence whether qualifying for access to funding, having extra funding to pay for registration, licensing and tax, what the business is allowed to sell, and even the novelty of a female owing a business, never mind wishing to grow their businesses. Although some challenges such as discrimination against female entrepreneurs regarding access to small business support or funding is perceived, there are real infrastructure challenges such as rural road conditions, access to electricity and ICT. Several strategies are already in place in Uganda to assist all small businesses with business growth, but not necessarily just assisting female small business entrepreneurs. However, many of these strategies are work-in-progress and have not yet had the desired end result. This study made a contribution to knowledge by indicating that government-, skills training-, financial- and export promotion institutions, as well as business associations together with influential community members, can contribute significantly to the implementation of several strategies to promote female small business growth. In addition, the chapter on best practices of global developed – and developing countries provided insight into making well-informed practical recommendations that Uganda can implement to assist small businesses to grow and in particular females small businesses. These global best practice strategies for the growth of SMMEs as applied within the seven selected seven countries were elaborated on in detail with a clear indication of the responsible bodies in Uganda that can affect these strategies. The emphasis was on suggesting strategies that can be practically executed with relative ease in Uganda as a developing country. This study concludes that it remains the responsibility of female small business entrepreneurs to make the effort to grow their small businesses and turn their business visions into reality. They should write a business plan, search for and approach small business support institutions for assistance and engage in an extensive networking drive to grow their customer market and to search for opportunities to grow their business such as private-public sector partnerships or expansion into the international market. Awareness is not just the responsibility of the several small business support institutions in Uganda, but female small business entrepreneurs should actively scrutinise media reports in newspapers, the radio and television to obtain information regarding business support opportunities.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Commerce powered by 'National culture'? : an assessment of "Wear Local" campaigns as tools for reinvigorating the textile and clothing industries in Ghana and South Africa
- Authors: Darku, Esther Naa Dodua
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Textile industry -- Economic aspects -- Ghana Textile industry -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Sustainable development -- Ghana , Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2172 , vital:27619
- Description: This study examines the use of ‘cultural’ imagery and messaging as a tool to revitalise crucial national industries. Specifically, it examines the use of Wear Local campaigns in Ghana and South Africa as strategies to rejuvenate their textile industries and to make them viable in an increasingly competitive global market. Conceptualising Wear Local campaigns as possessing both cultural and economic imperatives, this study highlights how both factors contribute to making products of Buy Local campaigns marketable by showing their importance as both cultural and economic products. Using a descriptive-evaluative design, the study adopted a triangulated research approach comprising a survey, key informant interviews and document analysis. Survey questionnaires were administered to a total sample of 308 respondents in Ghana and South Africa. The qualitative phase of the study involved 10 key informant interviews (comprising textile labour unions, clothing designers, and government officials in both countries) and document/documentary research. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while the qualitative data were analysed using interpretive approaches, such as content analysis. The results indicate significant uses of national cultural elements in the campaign messaging in both Ghana and South Africa, as well as notable differences in the ways in which these campaigns resonated with consumers in the two countries. For instance, cultural differences accounted for high popularity of the campaign in Ghana and low popularity in South Africa. Following from these findings, the study concludes that the discourse on Buy Local and Wear Local, and the use of national culture in commerce, must go beyond the question of efficacy to examine the conditions under which these campaigns can become an effective economic/market tool. The study makes an important contribution to the existing knowledge on national culture, national economy and globalisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Darku, Esther Naa Dodua
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Textile industry -- Economic aspects -- Ghana Textile industry -- Economic aspects -- South Africa Sustainable development -- Ghana , Sustainable development -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/2172 , vital:27619
- Description: This study examines the use of ‘cultural’ imagery and messaging as a tool to revitalise crucial national industries. Specifically, it examines the use of Wear Local campaigns in Ghana and South Africa as strategies to rejuvenate their textile industries and to make them viable in an increasingly competitive global market. Conceptualising Wear Local campaigns as possessing both cultural and economic imperatives, this study highlights how both factors contribute to making products of Buy Local campaigns marketable by showing their importance as both cultural and economic products. Using a descriptive-evaluative design, the study adopted a triangulated research approach comprising a survey, key informant interviews and document analysis. Survey questionnaires were administered to a total sample of 308 respondents in Ghana and South Africa. The qualitative phase of the study involved 10 key informant interviews (comprising textile labour unions, clothing designers, and government officials in both countries) and document/documentary research. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while the qualitative data were analysed using interpretive approaches, such as content analysis. The results indicate significant uses of national cultural elements in the campaign messaging in both Ghana and South Africa, as well as notable differences in the ways in which these campaigns resonated with consumers in the two countries. For instance, cultural differences accounted for high popularity of the campaign in Ghana and low popularity in South Africa. Following from these findings, the study concludes that the discourse on Buy Local and Wear Local, and the use of national culture in commerce, must go beyond the question of efficacy to examine the conditions under which these campaigns can become an effective economic/market tool. The study makes an important contribution to the existing knowledge on national culture, national economy and globalisation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Determinants of export performance among small to medium enterprises in Zimbabwe
- Karambakuwa, Tapuwa Roseline
- Authors: Karambakuwa, Tapuwa Roseline
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economics -- Zimbabwe Small business -- Zimbabwe -- Management , Shipping -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17647 , vital:28424
- Description: There is consensus that Small to Medium Enterprises (SME) exports play a critical role in the development of economies. It has been widely acknowledged in empirical research done around the world that small businesses make a significant contribution to economic development, employment, competitiveness and the reduction of regional disparities. However, empirical literature gives conflicting evidence on the determinants of export performance among SMEs. The study contributes towards the debate on SME exports by: (i) investigating the variables that determine export performance among SMEs in Zimbabwe (ii) establishing the competi-tiveness of Zimbabwe’s exports and (iii) ascertaining the major constraints faced by SME ex-porters in Zimbabwe The researcher gathered data from 120 SMEs and 10 institutions in Zimbabwe for the period 2009 to 2015. SME samples were chosen from Harare, Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland East provinces while all 10 of the institutions were chosen from Harare province. Convenient non-probability sampling method was used to select SMEs while stratified sampling technique was applied in the selection of institutions. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed. For the quantitative approach, panel data ordinary least squares method was used in the form of the gravity model of trade. Export intensity (used as a measure of exports) was regressed against support institutions, business ownership, research & development, educational years, use of export processing zones, product type, export years, firm size, firm age, gender, distance from trading partner, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of trading partner, and GDP of Zimbabwe. The random effects estimation method was used, basing on results from the Durbin-Wu-Hausman test. The null hypothesis was based on the premise that the variables under study do not determine export intensity of SMEs in Zimbabwe. Other null hypothesis were that the major constraint faced by SME exporters in Zimbabwe is not access to finance and that Zimbabwe’s exports are not competitive in the mining, agricultural and manufacturing sectors. The revealed comparative advantage index was computed to measure the competitiveness of Zimbabwe’s exports.For the qualitative approach, the study used the triangulation method which involved combining and utilising the questionnaire, interviews and focus group discussions. The results from the study indicated that following variables increased export intensity of Zimbabwean SMEs; business ownership, use of export processing zones, export years, firm size, and GDP of trading partner. The following variables have an inverse relationship with the export intensity of Zimbabwean SMEs: gender, distance from trading partner and research & development. The results also indicated that these further variables do not determine the export intensity of SMEs in Zimbabwe: support institutions, years of education, product type, firm age and GDP of Zimbabwe. The major constraint faced by exporting SMEs in Zimbabwe is limited access to finance. Zimbabwe is competitive in the agricultural and mining sector exports, but not in manufacturing sector exports The policy implication of the findings is that SME support needs to go beyond support institutions when it comes to SME export promotion. Further SMEs in the agriculture and mining sectors need to be promoted for export growth since Zimbabwe is competitive in these sectors. However the manufacturing sector cannot be ignored, since many economies have developed due to exports of manufactured products and a country needs to have balanced export growth in both primary and manufacturing sectors. In order to have motivated, career SME exporters, entrepreneurship education should begin from primary school right up to university so as to improve entrepreneurial aspirations, attitudes and behaviour in the long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Karambakuwa, Tapuwa Roseline
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Economics -- Zimbabwe Small business -- Zimbabwe -- Management , Shipping -- Economic aspects -- Zimbabwe
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/17647 , vital:28424
- Description: There is consensus that Small to Medium Enterprises (SME) exports play a critical role in the development of economies. It has been widely acknowledged in empirical research done around the world that small businesses make a significant contribution to economic development, employment, competitiveness and the reduction of regional disparities. However, empirical literature gives conflicting evidence on the determinants of export performance among SMEs. The study contributes towards the debate on SME exports by: (i) investigating the variables that determine export performance among SMEs in Zimbabwe (ii) establishing the competi-tiveness of Zimbabwe’s exports and (iii) ascertaining the major constraints faced by SME ex-porters in Zimbabwe The researcher gathered data from 120 SMEs and 10 institutions in Zimbabwe for the period 2009 to 2015. SME samples were chosen from Harare, Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland East provinces while all 10 of the institutions were chosen from Harare province. Convenient non-probability sampling method was used to select SMEs while stratified sampling technique was applied in the selection of institutions. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed. For the quantitative approach, panel data ordinary least squares method was used in the form of the gravity model of trade. Export intensity (used as a measure of exports) was regressed against support institutions, business ownership, research & development, educational years, use of export processing zones, product type, export years, firm size, firm age, gender, distance from trading partner, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of trading partner, and GDP of Zimbabwe. The random effects estimation method was used, basing on results from the Durbin-Wu-Hausman test. The null hypothesis was based on the premise that the variables under study do not determine export intensity of SMEs in Zimbabwe. Other null hypothesis were that the major constraint faced by SME exporters in Zimbabwe is not access to finance and that Zimbabwe’s exports are not competitive in the mining, agricultural and manufacturing sectors. The revealed comparative advantage index was computed to measure the competitiveness of Zimbabwe’s exports.For the qualitative approach, the study used the triangulation method which involved combining and utilising the questionnaire, interviews and focus group discussions. The results from the study indicated that following variables increased export intensity of Zimbabwean SMEs; business ownership, use of export processing zones, export years, firm size, and GDP of trading partner. The following variables have an inverse relationship with the export intensity of Zimbabwean SMEs: gender, distance from trading partner and research & development. The results also indicated that these further variables do not determine the export intensity of SMEs in Zimbabwe: support institutions, years of education, product type, firm age and GDP of Zimbabwe. The major constraint faced by exporting SMEs in Zimbabwe is limited access to finance. Zimbabwe is competitive in the agricultural and mining sector exports, but not in manufacturing sector exports The policy implication of the findings is that SME support needs to go beyond support institutions when it comes to SME export promotion. Further SMEs in the agriculture and mining sectors need to be promoted for export growth since Zimbabwe is competitive in these sectors. However the manufacturing sector cannot be ignored, since many economies have developed due to exports of manufactured products and a country needs to have balanced export growth in both primary and manufacturing sectors. In order to have motivated, career SME exporters, entrepreneurship education should begin from primary school right up to university so as to improve entrepreneurial aspirations, attitudes and behaviour in the long run.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Development of conservation strategies for Alepidea Amatymbica ECKL. & ZEYH. : a rare medicinal plant in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Mangoale, Ramatsobane Maureen
- Authors: Mangoale, Ramatsobane Maureen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Medicinal plants Plants, Cultivated
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8667 , vital:33400
- Description: Conservation through cultivation has been recommended as a means to relieve overexploitation of medicinal plants. However, the medicinal plants users believe that plants collected from the wild are more potent than cultivated ones. Hence, there is a need for scientific documentation of the potency of cultivated medicinal plants to contribute to the development of a sustainable management strategy to conserve wild populations. This study was aimed at documenting cultivation techniques of a known medicinal plant, Alepidea amatymbica and to validate its medicinal efficacy. In order to identify overexploited medicinal plants in the study area and thus develop their conservation strategy, a survey on the trade of medicinal plants was conducted in selected towns of Amathole District Municipality of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The survey revealed 67 plants belonging to 46 different families. Twenty-five medicinal plants were identified as overexploited and scarce and they were prioritized for conservation. Furthermore, 69.14 percent of the respondents were not willing to use cultivated medicinal plants. Lack of belief on the potency of cultivated plants and cultivation techniques were mentioned as the most significant constraints to conservation of medicinal plants. Also, the time for cultivated plants to reach maturity deterred herbal medicine practitioners from cultivating them. Alepidea amatymbica was mentioned as one of the most overexploited medicinal plants which has become scarce in the study area. This medicinal plant was therefore selected for this study. In order to develop sustainable conservation program for the species, various studies which include survey on the medicinal plants trade, cultivation, comparative micromorphology, elemental composition, toxicity, phytochemical and antioxidant activity of the wild and cultivated A. amatymbica were conducted. Cultivation of Alepidea amatymbica was conducted to determine the appropriate planting depth and rhizome fragment length for the growth of this plant. The experiment was laid out in a Complete Randomized Block Design (CRBD) with two factors in 6×3 factorial design. There were six levels of fragment length (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 cm) and three levels of burial depth (2.5, 5 and 7.5 cm). Emergence rate, number of leaves, leaf area, and plant height, number of florets, rhizome length gain, rhizome weight gain, shoot moisture and rhizome moisture were measured as growth parameters. The best overall yield in terms of plant height, shoot emergence, rhizome weight gain, number of florets and number of leaves was observed in 7.5 cm planting depth at 6 cm rhizome length. Four centimetre rhizome length had the highest leaf area of 111.9±3.5 cm2, 101.3±3.5 cm2, 105±3.5 cm2 at 2.5, 5, 7.5 cm planting depth respectively. Shorter fragment lengths showed high potential for vegetative propagation in terms of rhizome length gain at all burial depths. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the foliar micro morphological characteristics while energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) was used to determine the elemental composition in different parts of the wild and cultivated plants. The study revealed numerous differences between the wild and cultivated ones. These include deposition of epicuticular waxes, stomatal apparatus, helical thickening of the xylem walls, thickening of the epidermal cell layer and presence of starch grains in the parenchyma cells of the cortex. The EDXS analysis also revealed disproportionate quantities of C, O, Ca, K, Al, Mg, Si, Br and N as the major constituents in both cultivated and wild A. amatymbica specimens. The quantities of elements varied in the different parts of wild and cultivated plants. Toxicity of the methanol, water and acetone extracts of the fresh rhizome of the wild and cultivated A. amatymbica were evaluated using hatchability of cysts and lethality on the hatched cysts (nauplii) of Artemia salina. The highest hatching success was observed in the water extracts of the wild plant (46.16percent) with a MIC of 0.184 mg/ml while the cultivated plants had a hatching success of 40.83percent with MIC of 0.208 mg/ml. Highest mortality was observed in the acetone extract of the wild plants at the lethal dose of 0.191 mg/ml while the cultivated plant had a lethal dose of 0.270 mg/ml. Water extracts of both wild and cultivated plants showed similar lethal dose (LD50) of >1 mg/ml. Methanol extracts of both the wild and cultivated species exhibited almost the same level of toxicity (0.695 mg/ml and 0.628 mg/ml, respectively). Based on the Bastos criterion of toxicity indices of the lethality test, all the plant fractions demonstrated cytotoxicity effect, although the degree of their toxicity varied among the plants used. Standard spectrophotometry assays were used to quantify the phytochemical contents and to determine the antioxidant potentials of the cultivated and wild A. amatymbica. The results revealed different levels of phytochemicals with corresponding antioxidant activities. The wild extracts had higher phytochemical contents in most of the assays than cultivated extracts. Total phenol in the wild extracts ranged from 32.30±3.43 to 117.8±8.45 mg GAE/g with the acetone extracts having the highest content while the water extracts was the least. The range in the total phenol of the cultivated species was 66.46±5.29 to 98.44±6.08 mg GAE/g with the methanol extracts having the highest content while water extracts was the least. The flavonoids content ranged from 55.01±6.51 to 99.09±7.20 mg QE/mg and from 48.65±7.74 to 67.32±4.1 mg QE/mg for the wild and cultivated plants, respectively. The alkaloids contents ranged from 14.70±0.04 to 17.80±0.015 percent in the wild species while it ranged from 11.98±0.14 to 13.21±0.06 percent in the cultivated species. The wild species also showed higher antioxidant activities in most of the assays evaluated. The study revealed successful cultivation of the wild species of Alepidea amatymbica using fragments from the rhizome. The micromorphological study of both the wild and cultivated species showed minimal differences in the helical thickening of the walls in the xylem vessels and starch grain accumulation pattern. Although herbal medicine practitioners believe that cultivated species are not potent, however this study revealed some levels of phytochemicals contents and antioxidant activities which are comparable to the wild species. Cultivation is a major strategy in conserving nature and their resources. Hence, the successful domestication of A. amatymbica would help in reducing the pressure on the wild species while also meeting their medicinal demands purposes, utilisation and conserving for future generations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mangoale, Ramatsobane Maureen
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Medicinal plants Plants, Cultivated
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8667 , vital:33400
- Description: Conservation through cultivation has been recommended as a means to relieve overexploitation of medicinal plants. However, the medicinal plants users believe that plants collected from the wild are more potent than cultivated ones. Hence, there is a need for scientific documentation of the potency of cultivated medicinal plants to contribute to the development of a sustainable management strategy to conserve wild populations. This study was aimed at documenting cultivation techniques of a known medicinal plant, Alepidea amatymbica and to validate its medicinal efficacy. In order to identify overexploited medicinal plants in the study area and thus develop their conservation strategy, a survey on the trade of medicinal plants was conducted in selected towns of Amathole District Municipality of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The survey revealed 67 plants belonging to 46 different families. Twenty-five medicinal plants were identified as overexploited and scarce and they were prioritized for conservation. Furthermore, 69.14 percent of the respondents were not willing to use cultivated medicinal plants. Lack of belief on the potency of cultivated plants and cultivation techniques were mentioned as the most significant constraints to conservation of medicinal plants. Also, the time for cultivated plants to reach maturity deterred herbal medicine practitioners from cultivating them. Alepidea amatymbica was mentioned as one of the most overexploited medicinal plants which has become scarce in the study area. This medicinal plant was therefore selected for this study. In order to develop sustainable conservation program for the species, various studies which include survey on the medicinal plants trade, cultivation, comparative micromorphology, elemental composition, toxicity, phytochemical and antioxidant activity of the wild and cultivated A. amatymbica were conducted. Cultivation of Alepidea amatymbica was conducted to determine the appropriate planting depth and rhizome fragment length for the growth of this plant. The experiment was laid out in a Complete Randomized Block Design (CRBD) with two factors in 6×3 factorial design. There were six levels of fragment length (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 cm) and three levels of burial depth (2.5, 5 and 7.5 cm). Emergence rate, number of leaves, leaf area, and plant height, number of florets, rhizome length gain, rhizome weight gain, shoot moisture and rhizome moisture were measured as growth parameters. The best overall yield in terms of plant height, shoot emergence, rhizome weight gain, number of florets and number of leaves was observed in 7.5 cm planting depth at 6 cm rhizome length. Four centimetre rhizome length had the highest leaf area of 111.9±3.5 cm2, 101.3±3.5 cm2, 105±3.5 cm2 at 2.5, 5, 7.5 cm planting depth respectively. Shorter fragment lengths showed high potential for vegetative propagation in terms of rhizome length gain at all burial depths. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the foliar micro morphological characteristics while energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) was used to determine the elemental composition in different parts of the wild and cultivated plants. The study revealed numerous differences between the wild and cultivated ones. These include deposition of epicuticular waxes, stomatal apparatus, helical thickening of the xylem walls, thickening of the epidermal cell layer and presence of starch grains in the parenchyma cells of the cortex. The EDXS analysis also revealed disproportionate quantities of C, O, Ca, K, Al, Mg, Si, Br and N as the major constituents in both cultivated and wild A. amatymbica specimens. The quantities of elements varied in the different parts of wild and cultivated plants. Toxicity of the methanol, water and acetone extracts of the fresh rhizome of the wild and cultivated A. amatymbica were evaluated using hatchability of cysts and lethality on the hatched cysts (nauplii) of Artemia salina. The highest hatching success was observed in the water extracts of the wild plant (46.16percent) with a MIC of 0.184 mg/ml while the cultivated plants had a hatching success of 40.83percent with MIC of 0.208 mg/ml. Highest mortality was observed in the acetone extract of the wild plants at the lethal dose of 0.191 mg/ml while the cultivated plant had a lethal dose of 0.270 mg/ml. Water extracts of both wild and cultivated plants showed similar lethal dose (LD50) of >1 mg/ml. Methanol extracts of both the wild and cultivated species exhibited almost the same level of toxicity (0.695 mg/ml and 0.628 mg/ml, respectively). Based on the Bastos criterion of toxicity indices of the lethality test, all the plant fractions demonstrated cytotoxicity effect, although the degree of their toxicity varied among the plants used. Standard spectrophotometry assays were used to quantify the phytochemical contents and to determine the antioxidant potentials of the cultivated and wild A. amatymbica. The results revealed different levels of phytochemicals with corresponding antioxidant activities. The wild extracts had higher phytochemical contents in most of the assays than cultivated extracts. Total phenol in the wild extracts ranged from 32.30±3.43 to 117.8±8.45 mg GAE/g with the acetone extracts having the highest content while the water extracts was the least. The range in the total phenol of the cultivated species was 66.46±5.29 to 98.44±6.08 mg GAE/g with the methanol extracts having the highest content while water extracts was the least. The flavonoids content ranged from 55.01±6.51 to 99.09±7.20 mg QE/mg and from 48.65±7.74 to 67.32±4.1 mg QE/mg for the wild and cultivated plants, respectively. The alkaloids contents ranged from 14.70±0.04 to 17.80±0.015 percent in the wild species while it ranged from 11.98±0.14 to 13.21±0.06 percent in the cultivated species. The wild species also showed higher antioxidant activities in most of the assays evaluated. The study revealed successful cultivation of the wild species of Alepidea amatymbica using fragments from the rhizome. The micromorphological study of both the wild and cultivated species showed minimal differences in the helical thickening of the walls in the xylem vessels and starch grain accumulation pattern. Although herbal medicine practitioners believe that cultivated species are not potent, however this study revealed some levels of phytochemicals contents and antioxidant activities which are comparable to the wild species. Cultivation is a major strategy in conserving nature and their resources. Hence, the successful domestication of A. amatymbica would help in reducing the pressure on the wild species while also meeting their medicinal demands purposes, utilisation and conserving for future generations.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Ecophysiology and nutrient uptake mechanisms facilitating the prolonged bloom persistence by Cyanothece sp. in Lake St Lucia, South Africa
- Authors: Du Plooy, Schalk Jacobus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cyanobacterial blooms , Cyanobacteria -- Physiology , Cyanobacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7344 , vital:21324
- Description: Cyanobacterial blooms are becoming more frequent worldwide, with possible negative effects on human health. The effects of climate change and eutrophication have been associated with persistent cyanobacterial blooms becoming more frequent. Altered water characteristics, salinity in particular, influence ecosystem dynamics that may lead to conditions conducive to cyanobacterial blooms. The occurrence of an 18-month long Cyanothece sp. bloom (the longest for any cyanobacterium recorded so far worldwide and the first of the genus) from June 2009 to December 2010 in Africa’s largest estuarine lake, St Lucia, highlighted the susceptibility of ecosystems to anthropogenic alterations. This study investigated the long-term survival and physiological adaptations of Cyanothece sp. to various and dynamic environmental conditions that contributed towards its bloom persistence. The main findings are the high salinities at which Cyanothece sp. could perform important physiological processes such as N uptake, N2 fixation and photosynthesis. Nutrient uptake (both nitrogen and phosphorus) was observed over the full experimental salinity range (0-300) while N2 fixation was only observed up to a salinity of 120. Nutrient uptake rates significantly decreased at this threshold salinity of 120. Interestingly, photosystem II activity was not observed in Cyanothece sp. during this study, but photosystem I activity was robust. Salinity had a minor influence on electron transport rates by photosystem I, high temperature (> 30°C) did however increase electron transport rates. Rapid responses to hypo-osmotic shock (i.e. osmotic downshift during freshening events) by Cyanothece sp. cells also helped minimize cell rupture due to high turgor pressure. Zooplankton abundance within the St Lucia system was negatively correlated with salinity, while grazing experiments indicated that the typical estuarine zooplankton species are able to graze on Cyanothece sp. cells. Therefore, the disappearance of zooplankton at salinities above 60 must have been an important factor in the bloom persistence. Apart from the ecological factors that were at play in St Lucia during the bloom period, the persistence of the Cyanothece sp. bloom can be attributed to the robust nature of their nutrient uptake, nitrogen fixation and photosynthetic systems to maintain activity despite extreme hypersalinity levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Du Plooy, Schalk Jacobus
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Cyanobacterial blooms , Cyanobacteria -- Physiology , Cyanobacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/7344 , vital:21324
- Description: Cyanobacterial blooms are becoming more frequent worldwide, with possible negative effects on human health. The effects of climate change and eutrophication have been associated with persistent cyanobacterial blooms becoming more frequent. Altered water characteristics, salinity in particular, influence ecosystem dynamics that may lead to conditions conducive to cyanobacterial blooms. The occurrence of an 18-month long Cyanothece sp. bloom (the longest for any cyanobacterium recorded so far worldwide and the first of the genus) from June 2009 to December 2010 in Africa’s largest estuarine lake, St Lucia, highlighted the susceptibility of ecosystems to anthropogenic alterations. This study investigated the long-term survival and physiological adaptations of Cyanothece sp. to various and dynamic environmental conditions that contributed towards its bloom persistence. The main findings are the high salinities at which Cyanothece sp. could perform important physiological processes such as N uptake, N2 fixation and photosynthesis. Nutrient uptake (both nitrogen and phosphorus) was observed over the full experimental salinity range (0-300) while N2 fixation was only observed up to a salinity of 120. Nutrient uptake rates significantly decreased at this threshold salinity of 120. Interestingly, photosystem II activity was not observed in Cyanothece sp. during this study, but photosystem I activity was robust. Salinity had a minor influence on electron transport rates by photosystem I, high temperature (> 30°C) did however increase electron transport rates. Rapid responses to hypo-osmotic shock (i.e. osmotic downshift during freshening events) by Cyanothece sp. cells also helped minimize cell rupture due to high turgor pressure. Zooplankton abundance within the St Lucia system was negatively correlated with salinity, while grazing experiments indicated that the typical estuarine zooplankton species are able to graze on Cyanothece sp. cells. Therefore, the disappearance of zooplankton at salinities above 60 must have been an important factor in the bloom persistence. Apart from the ecological factors that were at play in St Lucia during the bloom period, the persistence of the Cyanothece sp. bloom can be attributed to the robust nature of their nutrient uptake, nitrogen fixation and photosynthetic systems to maintain activity despite extreme hypersalinity levels.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Effects of Vigna unguiculata and Lablab purpureus on methanogenesis, haematological parameters and the quality of meat from Xhosa Lop Ear goats
- Authors: Washaya, Soul
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Legumes Forage Forage plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9996 , vital:35249
- Description: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the nutritive value of forage legumes Lablab purpureus (Lablab) and Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea) and their effects on intake, growth, blood parameters and meat quality in Xhosa goats. Forages were established at UFH research farm in the summer of the 2014 /15 growing season in blocks measuring 8m width x 16m long for each legume, replicated three times, making a total of four blocks, and eight treatment units for each legume. Samples were collected at three different stages of growth of preanthesis, anthesis and post anthesis for biomass yield determination. A homogenous sub-sample was then oven dried for 72 hours at 60 0C. After drying the forage samples were milled through a 1mm screen and a 20g sample from each stage of growth and forage sample was subjected to proximate analysis, in-vitro digestibility and anti-nutrient evaluation. The in-vitro digestibility experiment was done with rumen liquor of cattle and sheep collected from an abbatoir. Tannins, total phenolics and sapponins were the only anti-nutrients evaluated as they are perceived to influence methanogenesis in ruminat animals. At 50percent flowering, forage legumes were harvested for hay making which was then used in an in-vivo trial to evaluate the nutritive value of forages. This trial was conducted using eighteen one-year-old goats of average weight 14.2±0.24 kg over a period of sixty days. The results showed that biomass yield, which increased with stage of growth, was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab than Cowpea (7.968t/ha vs 7.105t/ha). Cowpea exhibited higher moisture content (7.72percent), Ash (13.11percent), acid detergent fibre (ADF) (38.42percent) and crude protein (CP) (20.23percent) than Lablab which had 7.50percent, 11.45 percent, 36.17percent and 19percent, respectively. Lablab forage had significantly higher (P < 0.05) fat content (2.41percent), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) (49.27percent) and hemicellulose (13.07percent) than Cowpea which had 2.1percent; 46.91percent and 8.48percent, respectively. The stage of growth significantly (P < 0.05) affected the mineral content of both forages. Lablab showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) values (1.22percent 0.55percent, 2.67percent) than Cowpea (1.00percent, 0.45percent, 2.30percent) for calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) respectively. Lablab forage had significantly higher (P < 0.05) tannin (3.345mgCAE/gDM), phenolic (13.47mgGAE/gDM) and saponin (0.75percent) content compared to Cowpea with values of 1.494mgCAEg/DM; 9.402mgGAE/gDM and vs 1.55percent respectively. The tannin content significantly influenced in-vitro digestibility and enteric methane production. The forage type, harvesting stage and inoculum source significantly (P < 0.05) affected the in-vitro digestibility of the forages. The in-vitro dry matter (IVDM) and in-vitro organic matter (IVOM) digestibility was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab (41.13percent; 39.63percent) than Cowpea (39.86percent; 19.44percent), respectively. Both forages recorded higher dry matter (DM) digestibility coefficients at anthesis stage of growth 61.58percent, and 51.5 percent for Lablab and Cowpea respectively. The IVOM digestibility increased with stage of harvest (23.7percent to 25.57percent) for Cowpea while Lablab showed a decrease (44.6 percent to 43.9percent) when cattle inoculum was used. The IVDM digestibility was higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab (50.5percent) when cattle inoculum was used while Cowpea was observed to have higher digestibility co-efficiencies (38.54percent) when sheep inoculum was used. Cowpea had lower (P < 0.05) IVOM digestibility than Lablab (19.44percent) vs. 39.6percent). Lablab exhibited higher (P < 0.05) metabolisable energy (ME) values than Cowpea (6.21 vs. 2.70 MJ/kgDM). In the feeding study, the total DM intake by goats for Lablab was higher (P < 0.05) compared to Cowpea (688.1 vs. 607.8 g/head/ day). There was a positive (P < 0.05) correlation between dry matter intake and average daily gain (r= 0.8513, and r=0.5279) for Cowpea and Lablab respectively. Lablab and Cowpea promoted growth of Xhosa goats at a rate of 35.0g/d; and 38.3g/d, respectively which was not significantly different (P > 0.05). However, this growth was associated with a significantly higher (P < 0.05) food conversion ratio (FCR) of 19.16 vs 18.11 for Cowpea and Lablab, respectively. The apparent DM, non structural carbohydrate (NSC) nutrient digestibilities were significantly different (P < 0.05) for Lablab and Cowpea. Furthermore sex of animal influenced significantly (P < 0.05) the DM, ADF, NSC and NDF digestibilities. Lablab and Cowpea did not influence (P > 0.05) individual VFA molar concentrations in both sexes. However, animals fed Lablab had significantly higher butyrate concentrations (P < 0.05). Lablab and Cowpea forages significantly lowered (P > 0.05) enteric methane production in goats compared to a concentrate diet, and this was related to animal activity. Animals produced significantly more (P < 0.05) methane gas when ruminating than feeding or just standing. The average methane produced each year was lower but not significant (P > 0.05) for animals fed Cowpea than Lablab (4.602kg CH4, vs. 4.719kg CH4) when expressed per year. Male animals produced more gas than females with values of 17.40L/day; 12.46 g/kg DMI and 0.126g/day vs. 15.47L/day, 12.28 g/kg DMI, and 0.0109g/day, respectively. Forage legumes had no significant effects (P > 0.05) on serum total proteins (TP), globulin, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma- glutamyl transferase (GGT) concentrations, but serum concentration of albumin was influenced by the diets (P < 0.05). Sex of animals significantly influenced ALP concentration (P < 0.05) with male animals exhibiting higer ALP values than females. Measured over time, the plasma concentration of urea and ALP significantly increased (P < 0.05) while creatinine and cholesterol concentration decreased (P < 0.05). Although the overall serum concentration of urea, total proteins, globulin, creatinine, ALT, ALP and GGT remained unchanged among the treatments and between sexes; treatment by sex, treatment by day and sex by day interactions were significant (P < 0.05). The white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), haemoglobin, haematocrite, platelet and mean platelet volume (MPV) levels were similar among treatments and between sexes (P > 0.05). The WBC decreased with time by 8.07 x10 9/l while mean crepuscular volume (MCV) increased by 11.83(fl) from day 15 to day 55. Treatment diets significantly (P < 0.05) influenced neutrophile (percent) content while sex influenced basophile (percent) content. There were no treatment or sex effects (P > 0.05) on lymphocytes (percent), monocytes (percent) and eosinophiles (percent). In the meat quality study, the dietary treatments and sex had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on dressing out percent (DPpercent), initial pH, redness (a*), yellowness (b*), Warner Blartze Shear force (WBS) , drip loss and cooking loss in the chevon from Xhosa goats. Compared with a commercial pellet diet, Lablab and Cowpea diets resulted in similar slaughter body weights (SBW), hot carcass weight (HCW) and cold dressed mass (CDM) of carcasses. However, female animals exhibited a significantly (P < 0.05) higher DPpercent than male animals (42.3percent vs. 38.9percent) for all treatments. The male animals exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher pH values one hour after slaughter than females (5.79 vs 5.67). Neverthreless the diet and gender did not significantly (P > 0.05) affect the ultimate pH (pHu). Meat samples from male animals had significantly (P < 0.05) higher redness values than females. Feeding cowpea significantly (P < 0.05) increased meat redness with the least drip loss of chevon. Female animals produced significantly (P < 0.05) tougher chevon compared to male animals; 4.16kg and 3.36kg for female and male, respectively. Lablab and Cowpea posses high CP levels and moderately lower NDF with high ADF values that influences dry matter intake (DMI), digestibility and growth of goats. These forage legumes meet animal requirements for fat, ADF, NDF, CP, Ca, Mn, zinc and Cu and their biomass yield is satisfactory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Washaya, Soul
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Legumes Forage Forage plants
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/9996 , vital:35249
- Description: The objective of the current study was to evaluate the nutritive value of forage legumes Lablab purpureus (Lablab) and Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea) and their effects on intake, growth, blood parameters and meat quality in Xhosa goats. Forages were established at UFH research farm in the summer of the 2014 /15 growing season in blocks measuring 8m width x 16m long for each legume, replicated three times, making a total of four blocks, and eight treatment units for each legume. Samples were collected at three different stages of growth of preanthesis, anthesis and post anthesis for biomass yield determination. A homogenous sub-sample was then oven dried for 72 hours at 60 0C. After drying the forage samples were milled through a 1mm screen and a 20g sample from each stage of growth and forage sample was subjected to proximate analysis, in-vitro digestibility and anti-nutrient evaluation. The in-vitro digestibility experiment was done with rumen liquor of cattle and sheep collected from an abbatoir. Tannins, total phenolics and sapponins were the only anti-nutrients evaluated as they are perceived to influence methanogenesis in ruminat animals. At 50percent flowering, forage legumes were harvested for hay making which was then used in an in-vivo trial to evaluate the nutritive value of forages. This trial was conducted using eighteen one-year-old goats of average weight 14.2±0.24 kg over a period of sixty days. The results showed that biomass yield, which increased with stage of growth, was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab than Cowpea (7.968t/ha vs 7.105t/ha). Cowpea exhibited higher moisture content (7.72percent), Ash (13.11percent), acid detergent fibre (ADF) (38.42percent) and crude protein (CP) (20.23percent) than Lablab which had 7.50percent, 11.45 percent, 36.17percent and 19percent, respectively. Lablab forage had significantly higher (P < 0.05) fat content (2.41percent), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) (49.27percent) and hemicellulose (13.07percent) than Cowpea which had 2.1percent; 46.91percent and 8.48percent, respectively. The stage of growth significantly (P < 0.05) affected the mineral content of both forages. Lablab showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) values (1.22percent 0.55percent, 2.67percent) than Cowpea (1.00percent, 0.45percent, 2.30percent) for calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) respectively. Lablab forage had significantly higher (P < 0.05) tannin (3.345mgCAE/gDM), phenolic (13.47mgGAE/gDM) and saponin (0.75percent) content compared to Cowpea with values of 1.494mgCAEg/DM; 9.402mgGAE/gDM and vs 1.55percent respectively. The tannin content significantly influenced in-vitro digestibility and enteric methane production. The forage type, harvesting stage and inoculum source significantly (P < 0.05) affected the in-vitro digestibility of the forages. The in-vitro dry matter (IVDM) and in-vitro organic matter (IVOM) digestibility was significantly higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab (41.13percent; 39.63percent) than Cowpea (39.86percent; 19.44percent), respectively. Both forages recorded higher dry matter (DM) digestibility coefficients at anthesis stage of growth 61.58percent, and 51.5 percent for Lablab and Cowpea respectively. The IVOM digestibility increased with stage of harvest (23.7percent to 25.57percent) for Cowpea while Lablab showed a decrease (44.6 percent to 43.9percent) when cattle inoculum was used. The IVDM digestibility was higher (P < 0.05) for Lablab (50.5percent) when cattle inoculum was used while Cowpea was observed to have higher digestibility co-efficiencies (38.54percent) when sheep inoculum was used. Cowpea had lower (P < 0.05) IVOM digestibility than Lablab (19.44percent) vs. 39.6percent). Lablab exhibited higher (P < 0.05) metabolisable energy (ME) values than Cowpea (6.21 vs. 2.70 MJ/kgDM). In the feeding study, the total DM intake by goats for Lablab was higher (P < 0.05) compared to Cowpea (688.1 vs. 607.8 g/head/ day). There was a positive (P < 0.05) correlation between dry matter intake and average daily gain (r= 0.8513, and r=0.5279) for Cowpea and Lablab respectively. Lablab and Cowpea promoted growth of Xhosa goats at a rate of 35.0g/d; and 38.3g/d, respectively which was not significantly different (P > 0.05). However, this growth was associated with a significantly higher (P < 0.05) food conversion ratio (FCR) of 19.16 vs 18.11 for Cowpea and Lablab, respectively. The apparent DM, non structural carbohydrate (NSC) nutrient digestibilities were significantly different (P < 0.05) for Lablab and Cowpea. Furthermore sex of animal influenced significantly (P < 0.05) the DM, ADF, NSC and NDF digestibilities. Lablab and Cowpea did not influence (P > 0.05) individual VFA molar concentrations in both sexes. However, animals fed Lablab had significantly higher butyrate concentrations (P < 0.05). Lablab and Cowpea forages significantly lowered (P > 0.05) enteric methane production in goats compared to a concentrate diet, and this was related to animal activity. Animals produced significantly more (P < 0.05) methane gas when ruminating than feeding or just standing. The average methane produced each year was lower but not significant (P > 0.05) for animals fed Cowpea than Lablab (4.602kg CH4, vs. 4.719kg CH4) when expressed per year. Male animals produced more gas than females with values of 17.40L/day; 12.46 g/kg DMI and 0.126g/day vs. 15.47L/day, 12.28 g/kg DMI, and 0.0109g/day, respectively. Forage legumes had no significant effects (P > 0.05) on serum total proteins (TP), globulin, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma- glutamyl transferase (GGT) concentrations, but serum concentration of albumin was influenced by the diets (P < 0.05). Sex of animals significantly influenced ALP concentration (P < 0.05) with male animals exhibiting higer ALP values than females. Measured over time, the plasma concentration of urea and ALP significantly increased (P < 0.05) while creatinine and cholesterol concentration decreased (P < 0.05). Although the overall serum concentration of urea, total proteins, globulin, creatinine, ALT, ALP and GGT remained unchanged among the treatments and between sexes; treatment by sex, treatment by day and sex by day interactions were significant (P < 0.05). The white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), haemoglobin, haematocrite, platelet and mean platelet volume (MPV) levels were similar among treatments and between sexes (P > 0.05). The WBC decreased with time by 8.07 x10 9/l while mean crepuscular volume (MCV) increased by 11.83(fl) from day 15 to day 55. Treatment diets significantly (P < 0.05) influenced neutrophile (percent) content while sex influenced basophile (percent) content. There were no treatment or sex effects (P > 0.05) on lymphocytes (percent), monocytes (percent) and eosinophiles (percent). In the meat quality study, the dietary treatments and sex had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on dressing out percent (DPpercent), initial pH, redness (a*), yellowness (b*), Warner Blartze Shear force (WBS) , drip loss and cooking loss in the chevon from Xhosa goats. Compared with a commercial pellet diet, Lablab and Cowpea diets resulted in similar slaughter body weights (SBW), hot carcass weight (HCW) and cold dressed mass (CDM) of carcasses. However, female animals exhibited a significantly (P < 0.05) higher DPpercent than male animals (42.3percent vs. 38.9percent) for all treatments. The male animals exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher pH values one hour after slaughter than females (5.79 vs 5.67). Neverthreless the diet and gender did not significantly (P > 0.05) affect the ultimate pH (pHu). Meat samples from male animals had significantly (P < 0.05) higher redness values than females. Feeding cowpea significantly (P < 0.05) increased meat redness with the least drip loss of chevon. Female animals produced significantly (P < 0.05) tougher chevon compared to male animals; 4.16kg and 3.36kg for female and male, respectively. Lablab and Cowpea posses high CP levels and moderately lower NDF with high ADF values that influences dry matter intake (DMI), digestibility and growth of goats. These forage legumes meet animal requirements for fat, ADF, NDF, CP, Ca, Mn, zinc and Cu and their biomass yield is satisfactory.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Energy services and energy poverty for sustainable development in Zimbabwe
- Authors: Mupindu, Chipo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8408 , vital:32743
- Description: This study examines the effects of energy poverty on sustainable development in Zimbabwe. The principal objective of this study was to analyse Zimbabwe energy poverty as a contributing factor impacting on sustainable development. Access to energy was viewed as a human right in this study and attributes of ecological modernization and energy ladder theories were incorporated in the study so as to foster sustainable development. The study developed a symbiosis between energy poverty and human development in Zimbabwe. The power shortages have caused a lot of energy poverty and load shedding in the country and this has had adverse consequences on the transformation of the economy as well as the general human capacity development in the country. The supply shortage was as a result of many factors which include the lack of investment in the power sector by government for expanded generation capacity, ageing equipment, incorrect pricing, bad debts, droughts, internal conflicts, skills flight, and government energy sector regulation, vandalisation of equipment and under supply of coal to thermal power stations. The country needs to commit itself towards improving the current situation by revising the energy policy to include alternative sources, the integration of regional power systems and construction of more power stations, and by putting research monitoring and evaluation mechanisms in place so as to improve power generation capacity which meets the demand of the country. The evidence from the findings gathered in this study led to the conclusion that the Zimbabwe energy and power sector lacks the capacity to provide adequate reliable clean energy to the nation and this has affected the development of the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Mupindu, Chipo
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Sustainable development -- Zimbabwe Zimbabwe -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/8408 , vital:32743
- Description: This study examines the effects of energy poverty on sustainable development in Zimbabwe. The principal objective of this study was to analyse Zimbabwe energy poverty as a contributing factor impacting on sustainable development. Access to energy was viewed as a human right in this study and attributes of ecological modernization and energy ladder theories were incorporated in the study so as to foster sustainable development. The study developed a symbiosis between energy poverty and human development in Zimbabwe. The power shortages have caused a lot of energy poverty and load shedding in the country and this has had adverse consequences on the transformation of the economy as well as the general human capacity development in the country. The supply shortage was as a result of many factors which include the lack of investment in the power sector by government for expanded generation capacity, ageing equipment, incorrect pricing, bad debts, droughts, internal conflicts, skills flight, and government energy sector regulation, vandalisation of equipment and under supply of coal to thermal power stations. The country needs to commit itself towards improving the current situation by revising the energy policy to include alternative sources, the integration of regional power systems and construction of more power stations, and by putting research monitoring and evaluation mechanisms in place so as to improve power generation capacity which meets the demand of the country. The evidence from the findings gathered in this study led to the conclusion that the Zimbabwe energy and power sector lacks the capacity to provide adequate reliable clean energy to the nation and this has affected the development of the country.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
Evaluating neuropsychiatric symptomology in HIV-positive patients on efavirenz in public-sector clinics and psychiatric hospitals
- Gaida, Razia, Grobler, Christoffel
- Authors: Gaida, Razia , Grobler, Christoffel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Drugs -- Side effects -- South Africa , HIV (Viruses) -- Enzymes , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa , Anti-infective agents -- Side effects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/29772 , vital:30776
- Description: Background: South Africa has the highest number of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in the world. In 2014, an estimated 10.2% of the population was HIV-positive which amounted to 5.51 million people. Efavirenz forms part of the triple therapy backbone used in South Africa and is part of the firstline treatment for HIV. Efavirenz has been strongly associated with causing neuropsychiatric side effects in at least 50.0% of patients to whom it is prescribed. These side effects cause hesitation amongst healthcare professionals to prescribe this agent to patients with active mental illnesses. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the neuropsychiatric side effects of efavirenz in HIV-positive psychiatric and non-psychiatric patients and to determine whether this drug may be recommended for use in an HIV-positive psychiatric patient population. Method: The study was divided into two parts, namely a quantitative portion and a qualitative portion. The quantitative study was a prospective drug utilisation study, while the qualitative portion consisted of semi-structured interviews carried out with healthcare professionals working with people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The study included five municipal clinics in the Nelson Mandela Metropole as well as two public-sector psychiatric facilities in the Eastern Cape where medical records were reviewed to obtain the information required. Patients were followed in both instances for a period of 24 weeks with follow-up assessments carried out at two, four, 12 and 24 week intervals. In terms of the qualitative study, nurses at the clinics and doctors at the hospitals were contacted and appointments for interviews were made. The interviews were recorded using a voice recorder and were transcribed and analysed using theoretical framework analysis. Results: The review of 126 medical records at the clinics revealed that no patient had suffered from or complained of a neuropsychiatric side effect. This may indicate that patients were not suffering from clinically significant side effects, side effects were not being adequately recorded by healthcare staff, or the healthcare staff were not questioning patients regarding side effects. A total of 26 hospitalised patients were followed for 24 weeks in the psychiatric facilities. Almost half of the patients using efavirenz experienced an improvement in symptoms to the extent that they were iii discharged from the facility. The majority of patients (66.7%) not on an efavirenzcontaining regimen did not improve to the point of discharge. Healthcare staff were vague when providing a definition of neuropsychiatric side effects. There were conflicting ideas on whether or not efavirenz should be used in patients with an active psychiatric illness. Conclusions: Further studies need to be performed in public-sector institutions to obtain a clearer picture of the side effects experienced by patients using efavirenz. Healthcare staff need to be encouraged to keep complete records to allow for meaningful analysis. The further integration of mental health services into existing HIV programmes is essential for holistic treatment. Patients in psychiatric hospitals demonstrated that even patients with psychiatric disorders on efavirenz can experience positive outcomes and stabilisation of psychiatric symptoms, which may indicate that these may not have due to efavirenz use. Further elucidation concerning the use of efavirenz in patients with psychiatric disorders, a description of the neuropsychiatric side effects, as well as management strategies must be provided in subsequent HIV guidelines.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017
- Authors: Gaida, Razia , Grobler, Christoffel
- Date: 2017
- Subjects: Drugs -- Side effects -- South Africa , HIV (Viruses) -- Enzymes , Antiretroviral agents -- South Africa , Anti-infective agents -- Side effects -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/29772 , vital:30776
- Description: Background: South Africa has the highest number of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in the world. In 2014, an estimated 10.2% of the population was HIV-positive which amounted to 5.51 million people. Efavirenz forms part of the triple therapy backbone used in South Africa and is part of the firstline treatment for HIV. Efavirenz has been strongly associated with causing neuropsychiatric side effects in at least 50.0% of patients to whom it is prescribed. These side effects cause hesitation amongst healthcare professionals to prescribe this agent to patients with active mental illnesses. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the neuropsychiatric side effects of efavirenz in HIV-positive psychiatric and non-psychiatric patients and to determine whether this drug may be recommended for use in an HIV-positive psychiatric patient population. Method: The study was divided into two parts, namely a quantitative portion and a qualitative portion. The quantitative study was a prospective drug utilisation study, while the qualitative portion consisted of semi-structured interviews carried out with healthcare professionals working with people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The study included five municipal clinics in the Nelson Mandela Metropole as well as two public-sector psychiatric facilities in the Eastern Cape where medical records were reviewed to obtain the information required. Patients were followed in both instances for a period of 24 weeks with follow-up assessments carried out at two, four, 12 and 24 week intervals. In terms of the qualitative study, nurses at the clinics and doctors at the hospitals were contacted and appointments for interviews were made. The interviews were recorded using a voice recorder and were transcribed and analysed using theoretical framework analysis. Results: The review of 126 medical records at the clinics revealed that no patient had suffered from or complained of a neuropsychiatric side effect. This may indicate that patients were not suffering from clinically significant side effects, side effects were not being adequately recorded by healthcare staff, or the healthcare staff were not questioning patients regarding side effects. A total of 26 hospitalised patients were followed for 24 weeks in the psychiatric facilities. Almost half of the patients using efavirenz experienced an improvement in symptoms to the extent that they were iii discharged from the facility. The majority of patients (66.7%) not on an efavirenzcontaining regimen did not improve to the point of discharge. Healthcare staff were vague when providing a definition of neuropsychiatric side effects. There were conflicting ideas on whether or not efavirenz should be used in patients with an active psychiatric illness. Conclusions: Further studies need to be performed in public-sector institutions to obtain a clearer picture of the side effects experienced by patients using efavirenz. Healthcare staff need to be encouraged to keep complete records to allow for meaningful analysis. The further integration of mental health services into existing HIV programmes is essential for holistic treatment. Patients in psychiatric hospitals demonstrated that even patients with psychiatric disorders on efavirenz can experience positive outcomes and stabilisation of psychiatric symptoms, which may indicate that these may not have due to efavirenz use. Further elucidation concerning the use of efavirenz in patients with psychiatric disorders, a description of the neuropsychiatric side effects, as well as management strategies must be provided in subsequent HIV guidelines.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2017